plate no. 1469

Self Portrait, Aged 32

oilBaroqueself-portraitportraitfigureartistpalettebrushesdrapery

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering realistic skin tones, as well as understanding light and shadow to create depth and form.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on proportions and placement of the figure and objects.
step 02
Establish the dark background using thin layers of dark brown and black.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure and drapery with mid-tones.
step 04
Begin building up the highlights and shadows on the face, paying attention to the subtle variations in skin tone.
step 05
Develop the folds and highlights in the drapery, using a combination of blending and layering.
step 06
Paint the details of the palette, brushes, and other objects, focusing on accurate color and value.
step 07
Add the inscription on the ledge.
step 08
Refine the overall painting, adjusting values and adding final details.