plate no. 8375

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome

watercolor, paperRomanticismcityscapebasilicaarchitecturecityscapefigurescolumnsky

experienced study

This painting offers a chance to practice architectural rendering and atmospheric perspective. Students can develop skills in watercolor layering and creating subtle color variations to depict light and shadow.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main architectural elements and figures, focusing on perspective.
step 02
Establish the sky with a diluted blue wash, leaving some areas for clouds.
step 03
Apply a light wash of ochre and burnt sienna to the buildings, creating a base tone.
step 04
Layer darker washes to define shadows and architectural details.
step 05
Paint the figures and animals, paying attention to their proportions and placement.
step 06
Add details to the buildings, such as windows, columns, and ornamentation.
step 07
Use dry brush techniques to create texture on the ground and buildings.
step 08
Refine the details and add final touches, such as highlights and shadows.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · burnt sienna

secondary · raw umber · ivory black · cadmium red light

Mix yellow ochre and burnt sienna for the warm tones of the buildings. Use ultramarine blue diluted with water for the sky. Add a touch of red to the ochre and sienna for variations in the buildings.

techniques