plate no. 4090

The Tennis Court Oath, 20th June 1789

pen, paperNeoclassicismhistory paintingfigureshistorical eventinteriorcrowdoathbuilding

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, composition with large groups, and creating a sense of depth through value and line work. It also provides practice in rendering drapery and architectural details.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch of the overall composition, focusing on the placement of the main figures and the architectural structure.
step 02
Establish the horizon line and vanishing points to create perspective.
step 03
Rough in the shapes of the figures, paying attention to their poses and gestures.
step 04
Refine the figure drawings, adding details to their faces, clothing, and hands.
step 05
Start adding shading to create depth and volume, using cross-hatching and stippling techniques.
step 06
Focus on the key figures in the foreground, adding more detail and contrast to draw the viewer's eye.
step 07
Add the architectural details of the tennis court, such as the walls, windows, and drapery.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to create a sense of drama and movement.

color palette

primary · sepia · raw umber · ivory black

secondary · cream · light grey

Achieve the various shades of brown by mixing sepia and raw umber with varying amounts of ivory black and white. Use light grey and cream for highlights and lighter areas.

techniques