plate no. 2840
The Slave Market
Gustave Boulanger, 1882
experienced study
Recreating this painting will develop skills in figure drawing, rendering skin tones, and creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective. Students will also learn to manage a complex composition with multiple subjects.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 40 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a preliminary sketch to establish the composition and proportions of the figures and architectural elements.
- step 02
Block in the main shapes and values using thin washes of color.
- step 03
Begin refining the figures, paying close attention to anatomy and skin tones.
- step 04
Develop the details of the clothing and accessories, adding highlights and shadows.
- step 05
Render the architectural background, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- step 06
Add the final details, such as the foliage and the writing on the wall.
- step 07
Glaze to unify the colors and add depth.
- step 08
Varnish to protect the painting.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · raw umber · titanium white · cadmium red light
secondary · ultramarine blue · ivory black · burnt sienna
Achieve skin tones by mixing cadmium red light, yellow ochre, and titanium white. Use raw umber and ultramarine blue to create shadows and depth. Mix ivory black and titanium white for the cool grays in the background.
techniques
- ·figure drawing
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect proportions of figures
- →Flat or lifeless skin tones
- →Lack of depth in the background
- →Overworking details too early
- →Inconsistent lighting
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas 24x36
- ·Oil paints (yellow ochre, raw umber, titanium white, cadmium red light, ultramarine blue, ivory black, burnt sienna)
- ·Linseed oil
- ·Turpentine
- ·Assorted brushes (round, flat, filbert)
- ·Palette
- ·Palette knife
- ·Rags
optional
- ·Medium gloss
- ·Retouch varnish
- ·Easel
Use a high-quality canvas and artist-grade oil paints for best results. Allow each layer to dry thoroughly before applying the next.
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