plate no. 2711

The Passing of Robin Hood

N.C. Wyeth, 1917

oilRomanticismillustrationfiguresinteriorwindowbow and arrowbedarchitecture

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to depict figures in a realistic setting with subtle lighting and how to create depth using value and color temperature changes. It also provides practice in rendering textures like fabric and wood.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the window.
step 02
Establish the main light source and shadow areas with a thin wash of burnt umber.
step 03
Block in the background colors, starting with the walls and window.
step 04
Begin layering the colors of the figures, paying attention to the light and shadow on their forms.
step 05
Refine the details of the faces and clothing, using smaller brushes.
step 06
Add the details of the bow and arrow, and the window frame.
step 07
Adjust the values and colors to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · titanium white · burnt umber · yellow ochre · ivory black

secondary · ultramarine blue · viridian green · cadmium red light

Mix various shades of white with small amounts of yellow ochre and burnt umber for the walls. Use ultramarine blue and white for the sky seen through the window. Mix greens with yellow ochre and ultramarine blue.

techniques