plate no. 6998

Self Portrait Against a Window

Robert Falk, 1916

oilCubismself-portraitfigurestill lifeportraitfruittablewindow

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to simplify forms into geometric shapes and use color to define planes and create depth. It also provides practice in capturing a likeness using non-traditional color choices.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition, paying attention to the proportions of the figure and the placement of the still life elements.
step 02
Block in the main color areas using simplified shapes, focusing on the overall color scheme rather than precise details.
step 03
Start building up layers of color, mixing hues to create subtle variations and define the planes of the face, clothing, and objects.
step 04
Use short, visible brushstrokes to add texture and dimension to the painting.
step 05
Refine the shapes and edges, paying attention to the interplay of light and shadow.
step 06
Add details to the face and still life elements, such as the eyes, mouth, and fruit.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and contrast to achieve the desired effect.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · Prussian blue · Yellow Ochre · Burnt Umber

secondary · Cadmium Red · Emerald Green · Titanium White

Mix blues and yellows to create the greens for the fruit and background. Use white to lighten and desaturate the blues and browns for the clothing and skin tones. Red is used sparingly as an accent color.

techniques