plate no. 0200
The Hour Glass
Evelyn De Morgan, 1904
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering complex drapery, creating subtle color harmonies, and understanding atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in depicting figures with realistic proportions and expressions.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 40 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a detailed preliminary sketch, paying close attention to proportions and perspective.
- step 02
Block in the main shapes and colors, focusing on the overall composition.
- step 03
Establish the light source and begin to build up the values, starting with the darkest areas.
- step 04
Develop the drapery, paying attention to the folds and highlights.
- step 05
Refine the details of the figure, including the face, hands, and hair.
- step 06
Add the background elements, such as the tapestry and the angel figure.
- step 07
Glaze layers to create depth and luminosity.
- step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · alizarin crimson
secondary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · ivory black
Achieve the flesh tones by mixing white, yellow ochre, and a touch of alizarin crimson. Create the drapery colors by layering burnt umber, alizarin crimson, and yellow ochre. Use ultramarine blue and white for the angel's robes.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·blending
- ·drapery rendering
- ·figure drawing
common pitfalls
- →Getting the proportions of the figure wrong.
- →Oversimplifying the drapery.
- →Creating muddy colors by overmixing.
- →Failing to establish a clear light source.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·rags
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
- ·easel
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Allow each layer to dry completely before applying the next.
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