plate no. 6960

Thomas Starling (1706–1788), Mayor of Norwich (1767)

oilRococoportraitportraitfigureclothingcolumndraperysword

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering complex fabrics and textures. It also provides practice in creating a sense of depth and form through subtle value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, paying attention to proportions and placement of the figure and background elements.
step 02
Establish the main light source and block in the large areas of color, focusing on the overall value structure.
step 03
Begin refining the figure's features, paying close attention to the subtle variations in skin tone and the details of the clothing.
step 04
Work on the background elements, such as the column and drapery, adding depth and texture.
step 05
Add the details of the sword and other accessories, paying attention to the highlights and shadows.
step 06
Refine the overall composition, adjusting values and colors as needed to create a cohesive and balanced image.
step 07
Add final details and highlights to create a sense of realism and depth.
step 08
Let the painting dry completely and apply a varnish to protect the surface and enhance the colors.

color palette

primary · red · green · gold · white

secondary · brown · gray · black

Mix various shades of red by combining a base red with browns, whites, and a touch of blue. Achieve the metallic gold effect by layering yellows, oranges, and browns, then adding highlights with white.

techniques

·portraiture
·fabric rendering
·glazing
·scumbling
·chiaroscuro

common pitfalls

→Getting the proportions wrong, leading to an inaccurate likeness.
→Overworking the details, resulting in a stiff and unnatural appearance.
→Failing to create a sense of depth and form through subtle value changes.
→Ignoring the importance of color harmony, resulting in a disjointed and unappealing image.