plate no. 7853

The Raising of the Cross

oilBaroquereligious paintingfigurescrucifixionreligious scenecrossdraperyanatomy

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in dramatic lighting (chiaroscuro), figure drawing, and rendering complex drapery. It also provides practice in creating a dynamic and emotional composition.

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 to establish the overall composition and placement of figures.
step 02
Block in the main areas of light and shadow using thin washes of color.
step 03
Start refining the anatomical details of the figures, paying close attention to muscle structure and form.
step 04
Develop the drapery, focusing on the folds and how they interact with the light.
step 05
Build up layers of color to create depth and dimension, using glazes and scumbles.
step 06
Refine the facial expressions and details to convey the emotional intensity of the scene.
step 07
Pay attention to the edges of forms, softening some and sharpening others to create a sense of depth.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the drama and realism of the painting.

color palette

primary · raw umber · titanium white · ivory black

secondary · Prussian blue · cadmium red · yellow ochre

Achieve the skin tones by mixing titanium white, raw umber, and small amounts of cadmium red and yellow ochre. Use ivory black and Prussian blue to create the deep shadows. Glaze with thin layers of burnt sienna to add warmth.

techniques