plate no. 1754
The Concert of Angels (detail from the Isenheim Altarpiece)
Matthias Grünewald, 1516
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering drapery, depicting figures in complex poses, and understanding subtle color variations to create depth and form.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 25 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a preliminary sketch outlining the main figures and architectural elements.
- step 02
Establish the background colors, starting with the darker areas.
- step 03
Block in the basic shapes and values of the angels and their instruments.
- step 04
Begin layering colors to define the drapery and create a sense of volume.
- step 05
Refine the details of the faces and hands, paying attention to subtle tonal shifts.
- step 06
Add highlights and shadows to enhance the three-dimensionality of the figures.
- step 07
Work on the architectural details, ensuring they recede into the background.
- step 08
Make final adjustments to the overall composition and color harmony.
color palette
primary · rose madder · yellow ochre · ivory black
secondary · viridian · ultramarine blue · titanium white
Achieve the muted tones by mixing primary colors with white and small amounts of black. Use glazes of rose madder to create the warm, fleshy tones of the angels.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·underpainting
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·blending
common pitfalls
- →overly bright colors
- →flat rendering of drapery
- →inaccurate proportions
- →lack of depth
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·assorted brushes
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
- ·mahl stick
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Consider using a toned canvas to establish a base color.
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