plate no. 2429

St. Francis in Extasy, also called The Praying Monk beside the Dying Monk

oil, canvasTenebrismreligious paintingmonkscandletablebookinteriorreligious

some experience helpful

This painting is a great exercise in understanding and recreating dramatic lighting. Students will learn to create depth and form using a limited palette and strong value contrasts.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the table.
step 02
Establish the darkest areas of the painting with a dark brown or black.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figures and objects with mid-tone browns and reds.
step 04
Begin to build up the highlights around the candle flame, using progressively lighter tones.
step 05
Carefully blend the transitions between light and shadow to create a soft, diffused effect.
step 06
Add details to the faces and hands, paying attention to the way the light illuminates them.
step 07
Refine the details of the clothing and objects, adding texture and interest.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to enhance the overall effect.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw umber · titanium white · cadmium red

secondary · yellow ochre · ivory black

Mix burnt umber and raw umber for the dark tones. Add white to create lighter shades. Use cadmium red for the robes, and mix with umber to darken the red.

techniques