plate no. 5221
The Milanese consuls tear and trample the decree of Barbarossa
Francesco Hayez, 1859
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, drapery rendering, and creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in capturing complex scenes with many figures.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 30 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the overall composition and placement of figures.
- step 02
Block in the main shapes and values, focusing on the large areas of light and shadow.
- step 03
Start refining the figures, paying attention to proportions and anatomical details.
- step 04
Develop the drapery, using highlights and shadows to create a sense of volume and texture.
- step 05
Add details to the architecture and other background elements.
- step 06
Refine the lighting and atmosphere, using glazes to create depth and subtle color variations.
- step 07
Add the final details, such as the faces, hands, and textures of the armor and fabrics.
- step 08
Review and adjust the overall composition and color balance.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · cadmium red · ivory black
secondary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · titanium white
Achieve the muted tones by mixing earth pigments with black and white. Use glazes of transparent colors to create depth and subtle color variations.
techniques
- ·figure drawing
- ·drapery rendering
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·glazing
- ·chiaroscuro
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect proportions of figures
- →Flat or lifeless drapery
- →Lack of depth and atmosphere
- →Overworking details too early
- →Inaccurate color mixing
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·retouch varnish
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a toned ground to help establish the overall color scheme.
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