plate no. 2954

The Table (Still Life with Rabbit)

Joan Miro, 1920

oil, canvasCubismstill lifestill liferabbitroosterfishtablefruit

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand cubist principles of flattening space and representing multiple viewpoints. It will also improve skills in color mixing and creating texture with brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition of the table and objects.
step 02
Divide the canvas into geometric planes, simplifying the forms.
step 03
Block in the main colors for each object and background area.
step 04
Add darker values to create shadows and define the forms.
step 05
Mix secondary colors to add depth and visual interest.
step 06
Refine the details of each object, paying attention to texture and pattern.
step 07
Add final highlights to create contrast and bring the painting to life.
step 08
Review and adjust colors and values as needed.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · black · white

secondary · red · green · brown

Achieve the various shades of yellow by mixing yellow ochre with white and small amounts of black. Greens can be created by mixing yellow and black. Browns can be created by mixing black, red, and yellow.

techniques