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Self-portrait by Eugene Delacroix

plate no. 9879

Self-portrait

Eugene Delacroix, 1840

oil, canvasRomanticismself-portraitportraitfiguremanhairclothingface
some experience helpful

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

palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
4

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Sketch the basic proportions and pose of the figure on the canvas.

  2. step 02

    Establish the background with broad, blended strokes of dark browns and grays.

  3. step 03

    Block in the main shapes of the face and hair, focusing on accurate placement and proportions.

  4. step 04

    Begin layering in highlights and shadows on the face to define the bone structure and features.

  5. step 05

    Refine the details of the eyes, nose, and mouth, paying close attention to subtle value changes.

  6. step 06

    Add details to the hair, using varied brushstrokes to suggest texture and volume.

  7. step 07

    Paint the clothing, focusing on the folds and shadows to create a sense of depth.

  8. step 08

    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

  • ·underpainting
  • ·glazing
  • ·scumbling
  • ·dry brushing
  • ·chiaroscuro

common pitfalls

  • →Overworking the details too early in the process.
  • →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
  • →Using colors that are too saturated or bright.
  • →Losing the overall likeness of the subject.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·stretched canvas 16x20
  • ·burnt umber oil paint
  • ·raw sienna oil paint
  • ·ivory black oil paint
  • ·titanium white oil paint
  • ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
  • ·flat brush (size 8)
  • ·linseed oil

optional

  • ·palette knife
  • ·medium gloss
  • ·odorless mineral spirits

Use a medium-tooth canvas for best results. Consider using a toned canvas to establish a base color.

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oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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