plate no. 3007

The Dinner Party

Jules-Alexandre Grun, 1911

oilPost-Impressionismgenre paintingfigurestableinteriordinnerlightfurniture

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in depicting light and shadow in an interior scene, as well as capturing the texture of fabrics and the reflective qualities of glass and silverware. It also provides practice in painting figures in a dimly lit environment.

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 the figures and objects.
step 02
Block in the main shapes and colors, focusing on the overall value structure.
step 03
Establish the light source and begin to build up the highlights and shadows.
step 04
Develop the details of the figures, paying attention to the folds and textures of their clothing.
step 05
Add details to the table setting, including the glassware, silverware, and tablecloth.
step 06
Refine the background elements, such as the walls, furniture, and window.
step 07
Add final details and highlights to create a sense of depth and realism.
step 08
Step back and assess the painting, making any necessary adjustments to the composition, color, or value.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · titanium white · Prussian blue

secondary · alizarin crimson · viridian green · cadmium yellow

Mix burnt umber and yellow ochre for warm browns. Use Prussian blue and white for the blues in the dresses. Mix viridian green and cadmium yellow for the green dress.

techniques