plate no. 6080

The Harbour in Amsterdam

oilBaroquemarinashipswaterskyharborflagscityscape

experienced study

Recreating this painting will develop skills in atmospheric perspective and rendering complex details on ships. Students will also learn how to create a sense of depth and distance in a busy scene.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the horizon line and the placement of the main ships.
step 02
Establish the sky with light blues and grays, blending smoothly to create a sense of atmosphere.
step 03
Block in the water with darker blues and greens, paying attention to the reflections of the ships.
step 04
Begin adding details to the ships, starting with the largest one in the foreground.
step 05
Use thin washes of color to create the distant ships and buildings, softening the edges to create atmospheric perspective.
step 06
Add highlights to the sails and rigging to create a sense of depth and dimension.
step 07
Paint the flags with precise details.
step 08
Add final details to the water, such as small waves and reflections.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · raw umber · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · burnt sienna · ivory black

Mix various shades of blue and green for the water by combining ultramarine blue, raw umber, and white. Use yellow ochre and burnt sienna to create the warm tones of the ships.

techniques