plate no. 9002

Thomas of Villanova giving alms to the poors

oilBaroquereligious paintingfiguresarchitecturereligious scenepovertycharitybishop

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, rendering drapery, and creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective. It's also a good exercise in understanding and applying chiaroscuro.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the main figures and architectural elements, paying attention to proportions and placement.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure by blocking in the dark areas with a thin wash of burnt umber or a similar dark earth tone.
step 03
Gradually build up the mid-tones, focusing on the light source and how it affects the forms.
step 04
Start adding color, working from the darkest areas to the lightest, and blending carefully to create smooth transitions.
step 05
Refine the details of the figures, paying attention to facial expressions and anatomical accuracy.
step 06
Develop the architectural elements, focusing on perspective and the play of light and shadow.
step 07
Add highlights and final touches to create a sense of realism and depth.
step 08
Glaze with thin layers of color to unify the painting and enhance the overall effect.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red light · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue

Achieve the muted tones by mixing earth colors with black and white. Use small amounts of cadmium red and yellow ochre to add warmth to the skin tones and drapery. Ultramarine blue can be used to cool down shadows.

techniques