plate no. 2937
St. Etienne-du-mont, Paris, from Eaux-fortes Sur Paris (etchings of Paris)
Charles Meryon, 1852
experienced study
Recreating this painting will develop skills in linear perspective, architectural rendering, and creating texture through hatching and cross-hatching. Students will learn to simplify complex forms into basic shapes and build detail through line work.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
5
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the basic shapes and perspective of the buildings.
- step 02
Focus on the main vertical and horizontal lines to ensure accurate proportions.
- step 03
Start adding details to the main building, working from the top down.
- step 04
Use hatching and cross-hatching to create depth and shadow.
- step 05
Pay attention to the direction of light and how it affects the shadows.
- step 06
Add the figures in the foreground, keeping them simple and proportional.
- step 07
Refine the details and add any final touches.
- step 08
Consider adding a light wash to create a sense of atmosphere.
color palette
primary · sepia · ivory black
secondary · raw umber
Vary the intensity of sepia with water to create different shades. Use ivory black sparingly for the darkest shadows.
techniques
- ·hatching
- ·cross-hatching
- ·linear perspective
- ·architectural rendering
- ·wash
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect perspective
- →Overcomplicating details too early
- →Uneven hatching
- →Ignoring the light source
materials
surface · Watercolor paper
required
- ·Fine-tipped drawing pen
- ·Graphite pencils (HB, 2B)
- ·Eraser
- ·Ruler
- ·Watercolor paper
- ·Sepia ink
optional
- ·Magnifying glass
- ·Tracing paper
- ·Watercolor brushes
Use a smooth watercolor paper for best results with pen and ink. Consider using a light box for tracing the initial sketch.
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