plate no. 6194
Tasso in the Madhouse
Eugene Delacroix, 1839
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in creating dramatic lighting, rendering human figures in complex poses, and using a limited palette to create a somber mood. Students will also learn to create depth and atmosphere through layering and glazing techniques.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a preliminary sketch to establish the composition and proportions.
- step 02
Block in the main shapes and areas of light and shadow with thin washes of color.
- step 03
Develop the figure of Tasso, paying attention to the anatomy and drapery.
- step 04
Refine the details of the faces at the window, using subtle variations in tone and color.
- step 05
Build up the layers of paint, using glazing techniques to create depth and luminosity.
- step 06
Add highlights and shadows to enhance the three-dimensional effect.
- step 07
Pay attention to the edges of the forms, softening them in some areas and sharpening them in others.
- step 08
Add final details and adjust the overall color balance.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw umber · ivory black · titanium white
secondary · yellow ochre · cadmium red light
Achieve the muted tones by mixing umbers and black with white. Use small amounts of yellow ochre and red to add warmth to the skin tones and fabrics.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·dry brushing
- ·underpainting
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to create a strong sense of depth and atmosphere.
- →Using colors that are too bright or saturated.
- →Ignoring the importance of edges in creating form.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
Use a canvas with a medium texture to allow for better blending and layering. Consider using a toned canvas to establish the overall color scheme.
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