plate no. 8987

Self-portrait

canvas, oilBaroqueself-portraitportraitfiguredraperycolumnstatuehair

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including accurate proportions, rendering skin tones, and depicting complex drapery. It also provides practice in creating depth through value and color variations.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a light sketch outlining the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, statue, and background elements.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of burnt umber or a similar neutral tone.
step 03
Begin blocking in the main colors of the background, focusing on the subtle gradations of light and shadow.
step 04
Start developing the skin tones of the face and hands, paying close attention to the highlights and shadows.
step 05
Work on the drapery, carefully observing the folds and highlights to create a sense of volume and texture.
step 06
Paint the statue, focusing on its form and the way light interacts with its surface.
step 07
Add details to the hair, using small brushstrokes to create texture and movement.
step 08
Refine the overall composition, adjusting values and colors as needed to create a cohesive and balanced image.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · titanium white · cadmium red · yellow ochre

secondary · ivory black · ultramarine blue · raw sienna

Achieve skin tones by mixing white, red, yellow ochre, and a touch of umber. Create the drapery colors by blending red with umber and black for shadows, and adding yellow ochre and white for highlights. Use ultramarine blue and burnt umber to create neutral darks.

techniques