plate no. 8502

Self-portrait

oilBaroqueself-portraitportraitfiguredresscolumnvasejewelry

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including accurate proportions and rendering of skin tones, as well as understanding how to depict fabric and drapery with light and shadow.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, paying attention to the proportions of the figure and the placement of key elements.
step 02
Establish the background with thin washes of color, focusing on the overall tone and atmosphere.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure, including the dress, skin, and hair, using simplified color values.
step 04
Begin refining the skin tones, using subtle layers of color to create a sense of depth and realism.
step 05
Develop the details of the dress, paying attention to the folds and highlights of the fabric.
step 06
Add details to the hair, creating texture and volume with small brushstrokes.
step 07
Refine the background elements, such as the column and vase, adding details and highlights.
step 08
Add final details, such as the jewelry and facial features, to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · cadmium red

Mix skin tones by blending white, yellow ochre, and a touch of red. Create the blue of the dress by mixing ultramarine blue with white and a touch of burnt umber for shadows.

techniques