plate no. 6893

The Blessed Giles Levitating before Pope Gregory IX

oil, canvasBaroquehistory paintingfiguresreligiousinteriorrobescarpethistorical

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in rendering realistic figures and drapery with subtle value changes. Students can develop skills in capturing light and shadow to create depth and form.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the composition and placement of figures.
step 02
Block in the main shapes and colors using thin washes of paint.
step 03
Establish the darkest and lightest values to create a sense of depth.
step 04
Develop the figures, paying attention to the folds and highlights in the robes.
step 05
Work on the details of the faces, capturing the expressions and features.
step 06
Add details to the carpet and background, keeping them less defined than the figures.
step 07
Refine the edges and blend the colors to create a smooth transition.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the realism.

color palette

primary · red · brown · white · gray

secondary · ochre · dark brown · cream

Achieve the red robes by mixing red with burnt sienna and a touch of black for shadows. Create the gray robes by mixing white, black, and a touch of yellow ochre. Use thin glazes to build up the colors and create depth.

techniques