plate no. 6727

The Honourable Edward Ward (1753–1812)

oilRococoportraitportraitfiguremanclothinghistoricalformal

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including accurate proportions and capturing likeness, as well as understanding subtle color variations in skin tones and fabric folds. Students will also learn to create a sense of depth and form through careful shading and highlighting.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a light sketch of the figure's proportions and pose on the canvas.
step 02
Establish the background with a thin layer of dark brown paint.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the face, hair, and clothing using simplified color blocks.
step 04
Begin refining the facial features, paying close attention to the light and shadow.
step 05
Develop the details of the clothing, including the folds and buttons.
step 06
Add highlights and shadows to create a sense of volume and depth.
step 07
Refine the hair, using small brushstrokes to create texture.
step 08
Add final details and adjust values as needed to create a cohesive and realistic portrait.

color palette

primary · cadmium red · titanium white · raw umber

secondary · ivory black · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue

Mix skin tones by blending white, yellow ochre, and a touch of red and umber. Achieve the red coat color by mixing cadmium red with a touch of umber for shadows and white for highlights.

techniques