plate no. 4817
The Pharmacist
August von Pettenkofen, 1885
some experience helpful
This painting is a good exercise in value studies and creating depth with limited color. Students will learn to simplify complex scenes into basic shapes and values.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 7 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the main shapes: the cabinet, the figure, and the shelves.
- step 02
Block in the darkest areas first, establishing the overall value range.
- step 03
Add the mid-tones, focusing on the light source and how it affects the forms.
- step 04
Refine the shapes of the objects on the shelves and the figure's details.
- step 05
Add subtle highlights to create a sense of depth and form.
- step 06
Work on the floor texture using dry brush techniques.
- step 07
Adjust values as needed to create a cohesive and balanced composition.
color palette
primary · raw umber · titanium white
secondary · ivory black · yellow ochre
Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining raw umber, white, and small amounts of black or yellow ochre to achieve the desired tones.
techniques
- ·value study
- ·dry brushing
- ·scumbling
- ·limited palette
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →Overworking details too early in the process.
- →Creating too much contrast, resulting in a harsh image.
- →Ignoring the importance of atmospheric perspective.
- →Not simplifying the complex arrangement of objects.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·palette
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
Use a toned canvas to speed up the painting process. A mid-tone gray or brown would work well.
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