plate no. 2939
The Etruscan armourer
Federico Faruffini, 1869
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, atmospheric perspective, and capturing light and shadow with loose brushstrokes. It also encourages the study of historical settings and costumes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of figures and buildings.
- step 02
Establish the background cityscape with broad, muted tones.
- step 03
Block in the main figures with simplified shapes and values.
- step 04
Refine the figures, adding details to their clothing and faces.
- step 05
Develop the light and shadow on the figures and architecture.
- step 06
Add details to the armor and tools, using small brushstrokes.
- step 07
Soften edges and blend colors to create a sense of atmosphere.
- step 08
Add final highlights and details to enhance the focal points.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white · ivory black
secondary · cadmium red · yellow ochre · viridian
Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining burnt umber, raw sienna, and ivory black with titanium white. Use small amounts of cadmium red and yellow ochre to create warm skin tones. Viridian can be used sparingly to create muted greens for the background.
techniques
- ·dry brushing
- ·scumbling
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·figure drawing
- ·alla prima
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Creating muddy colors by overmixing.
- →Failing to establish a clear focal point.
- →Ignoring the effects of atmospheric perspective.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas 18x24
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·raw sienna oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·round brushes (#2, #6)
- ·flat brushes (#4, #8)
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·painting medium (e.g., Liquin)
- ·varnish
Use a medium-grain canvas to allow for texture. Consider using a toned canvas to establish a base color.
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