plate no. 9984
The Death of Messalina
Georges Rochegrosse, 1916
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, drapery rendering, and creating depth through atmospheric perspective. It will also teach them how to create a narrative composition with multiple figures.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 40 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a preliminary sketch to establish the composition and proportions of the figures and architecture.
- step 02
Block in the main shapes and colors using thin washes of paint.
- step 03
Develop the background elements, paying attention to atmospheric perspective.
- step 04
Focus on the figures, starting with the main characters and gradually adding details.
- step 05
Work on the drapery, using light and shadow to create volume and texture.
- step 06
Add details to the architecture and garden elements.
- step 07
Refine the colors and values to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · red · brown · white · ochre
secondary · purple · green · gold
Mix various shades of red and brown to create the drapery and skin tones. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights. Mix greens and browns for foliage.
techniques
- ·figure drawing
- ·drapery rendering
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Getting the proportions of the figures wrong.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- →Overworking the details and losing the overall effect.
- →Using colors that are too bright or saturated.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas 24x36
- ·Oil paints: red, brown, white, ochre, purple, green, gold
- ·Assorted brushes (round, flat, filbert)
- ·Palette
- ·Linseed oil
- ·Turpentine
- ·Palette knife
- ·Rags
optional
- ·Medium gloss
- ·Retouch varnish
- ·Easel
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Allow each layer of paint to dry before applying the next.
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