plate no. 9235
The End of the Working Day
Jules Breton, 1887
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students practice capturing atmospheric perspective and rendering figures in a realistic style. It also provides an opportunity to study light and shadow in a landscape setting.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the main figures and landscape elements.
- step 02
Establish the overall color scheme by blocking in large areas of color, focusing on the sky and the field.
- step 03
Develop the figures, paying attention to their proportions and the folds in their clothing.
- step 04
Add details to the landscape, such as the crops and distant trees.
- step 05
Refine the lighting and shadows, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- step 06
Add highlights to capture the sunlight.
- step 07
Work on the details of the faces and hands.
- step 08
Make final adjustments to the composition and color balance.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · ultramarine blue
secondary · titanium white · raw sienna · cadmium yellow
Achieve the warm sunset glow by mixing yellow ochre, cadmium yellow, and a touch of burnt umber. Use ultramarine blue and white to create the cool tones in the sky and shadows.
techniques
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·figure drawing
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·blending
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Ignoring the effects of atmospheric perspective.
- →Using colors that are too saturated.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas 18x24
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·palette knife
- ·rags
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
- ·varnish
Use a medium-grit canvas for best results. Consider using a glazing medium to enhance the luminosity of the colors.
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