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The jealous wife by Giacomo Favretto

plate no. 3507

The jealous wife

Giacomo Favretto, 1873

oil, canvasRealismgenre paintingfigureinteriordoorwayartisteaselstudio
some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to create depth using value and atmospheric perspective, as well as how to depict figures in a realistic style with attention to drapery and form.

technical profile

palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Lightly sketch the basic composition, paying attention to the placement of the figures and the architectural elements.

  2. step 02

    Establish the main light source and block in the large areas of shadow and light with thin washes of color.

  3. step 03

    Begin to refine the details of the figures, focusing on the folds of the clothing and the facial features.

  4. step 04

    Develop the background elements, such as the easel, paintings, and furniture, using a limited palette.

  5. step 05

    Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension, paying attention to the way light interacts with the different surfaces.

  6. step 06

    Refine the edges and details, using small brushstrokes to create texture and interest.

  7. step 07

    Glaze thin layers of color to unify the painting and create a sense of atmosphere.

  8. step 08

    Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · raw umber · ivory black · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue

Mix various shades of gray and brown by combining raw umber, ivory black, and titanium white. Use yellow ochre to add warmth to the lighter areas. Mix small amounts of ultramarine blue with the browns to create cooler shadows.

techniques

  • ·underpainting
  • ·glazing
  • ·chiaroscuro
  • ·atmospheric perspective
  • ·figure drawing

common pitfalls

  • →Overworking the details too early in the process.
  • →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
  • →Using colors that are too saturated.
  • →Ignoring the effects of light and shadow.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·stretched canvas
  • ·raw umber oil paint
  • ·ivory black oil paint
  • ·titanium white oil paint
  • ·yellow ochre oil paint
  • ·burnt sienna oil paint
  • ·ultramarine blue oil paint
  • ·assorted brushes (round and flat)

optional

  • ·palette knife
  • ·linseed oil
  • ·turpentine
  • ·medium gloss

Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a toned canvas to speed up the underpainting process.

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oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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