plate no. 2208
The story of the repeat offender
Karl Gussow, 1875
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering realistic figures and clothing, as well as creating a sense of depth and atmosphere through color and value.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the main figures and objects, paying attention to proportions and placement.
- step 02
Establish the background with a thin wash of neutral colors.
- step 03
Block in the main colors of the figures' clothing and skin tones.
- step 04
Begin to refine the details of the faces, hands, and clothing, using smaller brushes.
- step 05
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
- step 06
Paint the details of the table, cup, and other objects.
- step 07
Refine the background and add any final details.
- step 08
Varnish the painting when dry.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white · cadmium red
secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · ivory black
Mix various shades of brown and gray for the background and shadows. Use red and white for the clothing, and mix skin tones with red, yellow, and white.
techniques
- ·underpainting
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·blending
- ·chiaroscuro
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect proportions of figures
- →Overly bright or saturated colors
- →Lack of depth and dimension
- →Ignoring the subtle variations in skin tones
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·painting easel
- ·mahl stick
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. A medium-grit canvas will provide a good surface for painting.
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