plate no. 0686
The Hirschsprung family
Peder Severin Kroyer, 1881
experienced study
Recreating this painting will develop skills in portraiture, including accurate proportions and capturing likeness, as well as understanding atmospheric perspective and complex compositions with multiple figures. Students will also learn to mix subtle color variations and render realistic textures.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 30 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a preliminary sketch to establish the composition and proportions of the figures and background elements.
- step 02
Block in the main shapes and values using thin washes of color.
- step 03
Begin refining the figures, focusing on accurate proportions and capturing likenesses.
- step 04
Develop the background, paying attention to atmospheric perspective and the rendering of foliage.
- step 05
Add details to the figures, such as clothing folds, facial features, and hands.
- step 06
Refine the lighting and shadows to create depth and dimension.
- step 07
Add final details and highlights to enhance realism.
- step 08
Review and adjust the painting as needed to achieve a cohesive and balanced composition.
color palette
primary · ivory black · raw umber · yellow ochre · titanium white
secondary · cadmium red light · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna
Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining raw umber, ivory black, and titanium white. Achieve skin tones by blending yellow ochre, cadmium red light, and titanium white, adjusting the ratios for different complexions.
techniques
- ·portraiture
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·glazing
- ·underpainting
- ·figure drawing
common pitfalls
- →Inaccurate proportions of the figures.
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Ignoring atmospheric perspective, resulting in a flat composition.
- →Failing to capture the likenesses of the individuals.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas 24x36
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·cadmium red light oil paint
- ·ultramarine blue oil paint
- ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6, 8)
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·medium gloss
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Consider using a medium to improve the flow and blending of the paints.
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