plate no. 9517

St. Alexander Nevsky

oil, woodRococoreligious paintingfigurearmorcloudsangelsrobesword

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, rendering of textures like metal and fabric, and creating atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in depicting complex drapery and anatomical details.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure and the angels.
step 02
Establish the background with a gradient from dark blue to lighter tones near the top.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure, including the armor, robe, and face.
step 04
Begin layering colors to define the form and create depth in the face and clothing.
step 05
Add details to the armor, paying attention to highlights and shadows to create a metallic effect.
step 06
Paint the robe, focusing on the folds and drapery, and use highlights to create a sense of volume.
step 07
Render the angels with soft, blended brushstrokes to create a ethereal quality.
step 08
Add final details, such as the sword, crown, and any other embellishments.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · cadmium red · yellow ochre

secondary · burnt umber · raw sienna · ivory black

Mix various shades of blue and white for the sky. Use red and white for the robe, and yellow ochre and burnt umber for the gold details. Create the flesh tones by mixing red, yellow, white, and a touch of blue.

techniques