plate no. 5956

Soldiers Playing Cards

Mikhail Larionov, 1903

oilImpressionismgenre paintingfiguressoldierstreestabledoglandscape

some experience helpful

This painting offers practice in capturing figures in a loose, impressionistic style and using broken color to create a sense of light and atmosphere. Students will learn to simplify forms and focus on capturing the overall impression rather than precise details.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the table.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color: foliage, figures' clothing, and ground.
step 03
Begin adding details to the figures, using short, broken brushstrokes.
step 04
Develop the background foliage with layers of color, varying the brushstrokes to create texture.
step 05
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 06
Refine the details of the table and chairs.
step 07
Add the dogs and other small details.
step 08
Review the painting and make any necessary adjustments to the composition, color, or value.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · titanium white · ultramarine blue

secondary · burnt umber · cadmium yellow · ivory black

Mix greens by combining yellow ochre and ultramarine blue. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights. Burnt umber can be used to create shadows and darker tones.

techniques