plate no. 4105

The Destruction of Pompei and Herculaneum

oilRomanticismmythological paintingvolcanofigurescityskycloudsdestruction

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in atmospheric perspective, dramatic lighting, and rendering complex scenes with many figures. Students will also learn how to create a sense of depth and scale through careful use of color and value.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 7 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the volcano, city, and figures.
step 02
Establish the darkest and lightest values to create a strong sense of contrast.
step 03
Block in the main color masses, starting with the sky and volcano.
step 04
Develop the details of the city and figures, paying attention to their forms and relationships.
step 05
Refine the lighting and atmospheric effects, using glazes and scumbles to create depth and atmosphere.
step 06
Add final details and highlights to bring the painting to life.
step 07
Step back and assess the overall composition and make any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · crimson · burnt umber · ivory black

secondary · yellow ochre · titanium white · ultramarine blue

Achieve the fiery glow by layering crimson and yellow ochre, and create depth by mixing blues and blacks into the shadows. Use white to create highlights and atmospheric haze.

techniques

·glazing
·scumbling
·atmospheric perspective
·chiaroscuro
·dry brushing

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details too early in the process.
→Failing to establish a strong value structure.
→Using colors that are too saturated.
→Losing the sense of atmosphere and depth.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas 24x36
·oil paints (crimson, burnt umber, ivory black, yellow ochre, titanium white, ultramarine blue)
·linseed oil
·turpentine
·assorted brushes (round, flat, filbert)
·palette
·palette knife
·rags