plate no. 1048

The Ninth of November, 1888

oilNaturalismhistory paintingfiguresarchitecturestreet scenehorsescarriagecrowd

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in depicting complex scenes with many figures and architectural details, as well as understanding atmospheric perspective to create depth.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the main architectural elements and the placement of the figures.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of neutral colors, focusing on the light and shadow patterns.
step 03
Block in the main shapes and colors of the buildings, paying attention to the subtle variations in tone.
step 04
Start adding details to the figures in the foreground, focusing on their costumes and facial features.
step 05
Develop the background figures and architecture, using softer edges and less detail to create depth.
step 06
Refine the reflections on the wet street, using horizontal brushstrokes and subtle color variations.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create a sense of form and volume.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the composition and color balance.

color palette

primary · ivory black · raw umber · yellow ochre · cadmium red

secondary · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna · titanium white

Mix various shades of gray and brown by combining ivory black, raw umber, and yellow ochre. Use small amounts of cadmium red and ultramarine blue to add warmth or coolness to the grays.

techniques