
plate no. 4863
Recreating this image will help students understand hatching and cross-hatching techniques for creating value and form. It also provides practice in capturing likeness and detail in a portrait.
technical profile
approach — 8 steps
Lightly sketch the overall oval shape and the basic proportions of the figure within.
Refine the sketch, paying attention to the angle of the head and the placement of features.
Begin adding the darkest areas using hatching and cross-hatching, defining the hat and coat.
Gradually build up the mid-tones with lighter hatching, creating the form of the face and hair.
Add the details of the book and hand, using precise lines.
Work on the background hatching, ensuring consistent spacing and direction.
Define the inner and outer borders of the oval with clean, even lines.
Add the lettering at the top, carefully copying the style and placement.
color palette
primary · black · white
secondary ·
This image uses only black and white, so no color mixing is required. Focus on achieving different values through varying the density of hatching.
techniques
common pitfalls
surface · Smooth drawing paper
required
optional
Use a good quality drawing paper that can withstand erasing and won't bleed with ink. Start with a light pencil sketch before committing to ink.
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