plate no. 0414

The Vestals Attending the Sacred Fire

David Allan, 1772

oilNeoclassicismgenre paintingfiguresarchitectureinteriorcolumnsdraperylamp

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 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 drapery folds.
step 04
Develop the architectural details, including the columns, arches, and decorative elements.
step 05
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 06
Refine the details of the faces and hands, paying attention to expression and gesture.
step 07
Add the lamp and other accessories, ensuring they are accurately rendered.
step 08
Apply final glazes to unify the painting and enhance the colors.

color palette

primary · raw umber · titanium white · cadmium red light

secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · ivory black

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining raw umber, ivory black, and titanium white. Achieve skin tones by blending cadmium red light, yellow ochre, and titanium white, adjusting the ratios to create different complexions.

techniques

·underpainting
·glazing
·chiaroscuro
·drapery rendering
·figure drawing

common pitfalls

→Incorrect proportions of figures
→Overly harsh or flat lighting
→Poorly rendered drapery folds
→Inaccurate architectural details

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·Stretched canvas 18x24
·Oil paints (raw umber, titanium white, cadmium red light, ultramarine blue, yellow ochre, ivory black)
·Palette
·Assorted brushes (round, flat, filbert)
·Linseed oil
·Odorless mineral spirits
·Palette knife
·Rags