plate no. 2001

Sir Josiah Child, Bt

oilBaroqueportraitportraitfigureclothinghairlacemale

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering fabric textures. It also provides practice in subtle color mixing and creating depth through value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch of the overall composition, focusing on proportions and placement of the figure.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color, such as the background, clothing, and skin tones, using thin washes.
step 03
Develop the values in the face, paying close attention to highlights and shadows to create form.
step 04
Refine the details of the hair, using small brushstrokes to create texture and movement.
step 05
Work on the clothing, building up layers of color to create depth and richness.
step 06
Add details to the lace and other embellishments, using a fine brush.
step 07
Adjust the overall values and colors to create a sense of harmony and balance.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · red ochre · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue

Achieve skin tones by mixing white, red ochre, and a touch of yellow ochre. Darken colors with burnt umber and lighten with white. Use ultramarine blue to cool down reds and create shadows.

techniques