plate no. 9868

The Message

Gerard Terborch, 1660

oil, canvasBaroquegenre paintingfiguresinteriortableletterclothingshadows

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a rough sketch to establish the composition and proportions of the figures and objects.
step 02
Block in the main shapes and areas of light and shadow using thin washes of color.
step 03
Begin refining the skin tones, paying close attention to the subtle variations in color and value.
step 04
Develop the details of the clothing, focusing on the folds and textures of the fabric.
step 05
Work on the background and surrounding objects, gradually adding more detail and definition.
step 06
Refine the lighting and shadows to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 07
Add the final details, such as the facial features and the texture of the table.
step 08
Glaze with thin layers to unify the colors and add depth.

color palette

primary · raw umber · ivory black · titanium white · ultramarine blue

secondary · yellow ochre · burnt sienna · cadmium red light

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining raw umber, ivory black, and titanium white. Use ultramarine blue and white to create the cool tones in the woman's dress. Add small amounts of yellow ochre and burnt sienna to warm the skin tones.

techniques