plate no. 2282

Terpsichore, Muse of Dance

oilRococomythological paintingfiguremythologylandscapeharpdresssky

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including accurate proportions and subtle skin tone variations, as well as understanding how to depict drapery and fabric folds.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a light sketch outlining the main shapes and proportions of the figure, harp, and background.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color, starting with the background and then the figure's skin tones.
step 03
Develop the values and forms of the figure, paying close attention to the light and shadow on the skin and drapery.
step 04
Refine the details of the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 05
Add the details of the harp and the surrounding landscape.
step 06
Work on the drapery, focusing on the folds and highlights.
step 07
Blend the colors to create smooth transitions and soft edges.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · titanium white · cadmium red · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue

secondary · burnt umber · viridian green · ivory black

Achieve skin tones by mixing titanium white, cadmium red, and yellow ochre. Use ultramarine blue and white for the sky, and mix greens from blue and yellow. Add burnt umber to darken colors and create shadows.

techniques