plate no. 1923

Still life on a white tablecloth

Robert Falk, 1914

oilCubismstill lifestill lifetableclothfruitpitcherbottlesbread

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand color relationships and how to simplify complex forms into geometric shapes. It also provides practice in capturing light and shadow on different surfaces.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition of the still life, focusing on proportions and placement.
step 02
Block in the main color areas for each object and the background, using simplified shapes.
step 03
Begin to refine the shapes and add darker values to create depth and volume.
step 04
Mix and apply subtle color variations within each object to create form and interest.
step 05
Add highlights and shadows to define the edges and folds of the tablecloth.
step 06
Refine the details of the objects, such as the handles of the pitcher and bottles.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and contrast to match the original painting.
step 08
Add final touches and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · red-brown · yellow · gray · white

secondary · green · blue · orange · black

Mix various shades of gray by combining white with small amounts of black, blue, and brown. Achieve the red-brown color by mixing red, brown, and a touch of yellow. Use green and yellow to create the fruit on the pedestal.

techniques