plate no. 0442

The Red Cross

Evelyn De Morgan, 1918

oilRomanticismreligious paintingfigureangelsreligiouscrossesskylandscape

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, drapery rendering, and creating atmospheric perspective. Students will also learn to blend colors to create soft, ethereal effects.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the overall proportions.
step 02
Block in the main shapes and colors, starting with the background and then moving to the figures.
step 03
Develop the values and details of the figures, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 04
Add the details of the drapery, using soft, flowing brushstrokes.
step 05
Create the atmospheric perspective in the background by using lighter and cooler colors.
step 06
Paint the rainbow effects around the figures using thin glazes of color.
step 07
Refine the details and add any final touches.
step 08
Varnish the painting to protect it and enhance the colors.

color palette

primary · red · white · flesh tones

secondary · blue · green · yellow · brown

Mix various shades of red by combining a base red with white, brown, or black. Achieve flesh tones by mixing red, yellow, white, and a touch of blue. Create the rainbow effect by layering thin glazes of transparent colors.

techniques