plate no. 4312

The King

Max Beckmann, 1937

oilExpressionismportraitfiguresportraitkingcrownwheelclothing

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in expressive brushwork and understanding how to simplify complex forms into basic shapes. It also encourages experimentation with color mixing to achieve specific moods.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main figures and the wheel using charcoal or a light pencil.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, focusing on the overall composition and value relationships.
step 03
Start with the darkest values, gradually building up to the lighter tones.
step 04
Use bold, visible brushstrokes to define the forms and create texture.
step 05
Mix colors directly on the canvas to achieve a more spontaneous and expressive effect.
step 06
Pay attention to the negative space around the figures to create a sense of depth.
step 07
Refine the details of the faces and clothing, but avoid overworking the painting.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to enhance the overall impact.

color palette

primary · pink · yellow ochre · black · white

secondary · green · red · blue

Mix pink by combining red and white, and use yellow ochre as a base for many of the earthy tones. Darken colors with black and lighten with white, but avoid over-mixing to maintain vibrancy.

techniques