plate no. 1003

The Disrobing (Despoiling) of Christ (after El Greco)

Matthew Smith, 1922

oilPost-Impressionismreligious paintingfigurescrowdreligious scenerobesarmorportrait

experienced study

This painting helps develop skills in expressive brushwork and color mixing to create dynamic figures. Students will learn to simplify complex scenes into bold shapes and capture emotional intensity.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the main figure and the surrounding crowd.
step 02
Establish the dark background using a mix of black, brown, and green.
step 03
Block in the main areas of color, such as the red robe, green cloak, and flesh tones, using broad strokes.
step 04
Develop the figures' forms with thicker paint and visible brushstrokes, paying attention to light and shadow.
step 05
Mix various skin tones using red, yellow, white, and small amounts of blue or green.
step 06
Add highlights to the armor and robes to create a sense of depth and texture.
step 07
Refine the facial features and expressions, using small, deliberate strokes.
step 08
Add final details and adjust the overall composition to achieve a cohesive and expressive result.

color palette

primary · cadmium red · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · viridian green · yellow ochre · burnt umber

Achieve the skin tones by mixing red, yellow, and white, with small amounts of blue or green for shadows. Darken colors with burnt umber and black, and lighten with white.

techniques