plate no. 0094

The Love Letter

Auguste Toulmouche, 1883

oil, canvasAcademicismgenre paintingfiguredressflowerstablechairinterior

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure, table, chair, and background elements.
step 02
Establish the main light source and map out the areas of light and shadow.
step 03
Block in the background with thin washes of color, gradually building up depth and atmosphere.
step 04
Begin painting the figure, starting with the skin tones and then moving on to the dress. Pay close attention to the folds and drapery.
step 05
Paint the flowers and table, focusing on capturing the textures and colors of the different elements.
step 06
Add the details of the chair and screen, paying attention to the patterns and textures.
step 07
Refine the details and adjust the values and colors as needed.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to create a sense of depth and realism.

color palette

primary · ivory black · yellow ochre · cadmium red light · titanium white

secondary · alizarin crimson · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna

Achieve the dress color by mixing white, yellow ochre, and a touch of cadmium red. Use burnt sienna and ivory black for the dark background. Mix ultramarine blue and alizarin crimson for the purple drape.

techniques