plate no. 9698

Susanna Kennedy, Countess of Eglinton (copy After William Aikman)

oilNeoclassicismportraitportraitfiguredresscolumncurtaininterior

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including accurate proportions and capturing likeness, as well as rendering realistic fabric and drapery with highlights and shadows. It also provides practice in creating depth and atmosphere through subtle color variations and soft edges.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, column, and background elements.
step 02
Establish the main light source and map out the areas of light and shadow on the figure and drapery.
step 03
Begin blocking in the local colors of the background, including the column, curtain, and distant landscape.
step 04
Mix the skin tones and apply them to the face, neck, and hands, paying attention to subtle variations in color and value.
step 05
Start building up the layers of the dress, focusing on capturing the folds and highlights of the fabric.
step 06
Add details to the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth, and refine the overall likeness.
step 07
Paint the details of the dress, including the lace, embroidery, and jewelry.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to create a sense of depth and dimension.

color palette

primary · red · white · brown · green

secondary · gold · grey · ivory

Mix various shades of red by combining a base red with white, brown, or black. Achieve the silvery sheen of the dress by mixing white with small amounts of grey, blue, and yellow.

techniques