
plate no. 9879
Eugene Delacroix, 1840
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering form with subtle value changes. It also provides practice in creating depth and atmosphere through layered brushwork.
technical profile
approach — 8 steps
Sketch the basic proportions and pose of the figure on the canvas.
Establish the background with broad, blended strokes of dark browns and grays.
Block in the main shapes of the face and hair, focusing on accurate placement and proportions.
Begin layering in highlights and shadows on the face to define the bone structure and features.
Refine the details of the eyes, nose, and mouth, paying close attention to subtle value changes.
Add details to the hair, using varied brushstrokes to suggest texture and volume.
Paint the clothing, focusing on the folds and shadows to create a sense of depth.
Add final highlights and details to complete the portrait.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · ivory black · titanium white
secondary · ultramarine blue · cadmium yellow
Achieve skin tones by mixing white, sienna, and a touch of red. Darken shadows with umber and black, and use blue to cool down certain areas.
techniques
common pitfalls
surface · stretched canvas
required
optional
Use a medium-tooth canvas for best results. Consider using a toned canvas to establish a base color.
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