plate no. 8003

The Grand Lady

John Collier, 1920

oilRomanticismgenre paintingfigureslandscapestairstreesclothingsky

experienced study

Recreating this painting would help students develop skills in figure painting, drapery, and creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in rendering realistic textures and lighting.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the perspective of the stairs.
step 02
Establish the background landscape with broad strokes, paying attention to the atmospheric perspective.
step 03
Block in the main colors of the figures' clothing, focusing on the large shapes and folds.
step 04
Refine the details of the faces, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 05
Add the details of the clothing, such as the fleur-de-lis pattern and the fur trim.
step 06
Work on the stairs and the surrounding greenery, adding texture and detail.
step 07
Blend and refine the colors, paying attention to the overall harmony of the painting.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.

color palette

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

secondary · alizarin crimson · cadmium yellow light

Mix various shades of blue and gold for the clothing. Use white to create highlights and lighter tones. Mix greens for the grass and trees using blues, yellows, and browns.

techniques