plate no. 6807

The broken vase

oil, canvasAcademicismportraitfigurechildportraitinteriorfurnituretoys

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering realistic skin tones, capturing subtle light and shadow, and depicting complex textures like fabric and hair. It also provides practice in accurately portraying human anatomy and proportions.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 40 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a light sketch outlining the main shapes and proportions of the figure and objects.
step 02
Establish the background with thin washes of color, focusing on the overall tone and atmosphere.
step 03
Block in the main areas of color on the figure, paying attention to the light and shadow patterns.
step 04
Begin to refine the skin tones, using subtle layers of color to create a realistic effect.
step 05
Add details to the clothing and accessories, focusing on the texture and form.
step 06
Paint the details of the face, paying close attention to the eyes and mouth.
step 07
Refine the background and add any final details.
step 08
Add highlights and shadows to enhance the depth and realism of the painting.

color palette

primary · titanium white · yellow ochre · burnt umber · cadmium red

secondary · ultramarine blue · alizarin crimson · ivory black

Achieve skin tones by mixing titanium white, yellow ochre, cadmium red, and a touch of burnt umber. Use ultramarine blue and alizarin crimson to create purples for shadows and drapery.

techniques