plate no. 2525

The Reflection

oilImpressionismgenre paintingfigureportraitmirrorreflectiondressindoor

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, specifically capturing subtle skin tones and rendering light and shadow on the face and clothing. It will also improve their ability to create a sense of depth and atmosphere through color and brushwork.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main shapes and proportions of the figure, mirror, and background.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure by blocking in the main areas of light and shadow with thin washes.
step 03
Begin refining the skin tones, paying close attention to the subtle shifts in color and value.
step 04
Develop the details of the dress, focusing on the folds and drapery.
step 05
Paint the mirror and the reflection, capturing the subtle distortions and reflections.
step 06
Add details to the background, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 07
Refine the edges and details throughout the painting, ensuring a cohesive and harmonious composition.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of realism.

color palette

primary · titanium white · yellow ochre · burnt umber · ultramarine blue

secondary · cadmium red light · viridian

Mix skin tones by blending yellow ochre, burnt umber, and titanium white, adding small amounts of cadmium red for warmth. Use ultramarine blue and white for cooler shadows. Create the background with mixtures of white, blue, and yellow ochre.

techniques