plate no. 4886
Treppenflur bei Nachtbeleuchtung
Adolph Menzel, 1848
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand how to depict light and shadow to create depth and atmosphere, as well as how to simplify complex forms into basic shapes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 10 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the staircase, window, and figure, paying attention to proportions.
- step 02
Establish the darkest and lightest areas of the painting with thin washes of color.
- step 03
Begin layering in mid-tones, focusing on the subtle gradations of light and shadow.
- step 04
Refine the details of the window and staircase, using smaller brushes.
- step 05
Add the figure, blending the edges to create a sense of mystery.
- step 06
Adjust the overall values and color temperature to match the original painting.
- step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of depth.
- step 08
Step back and assess the painting, making any necessary adjustments.
color palette
primary · raw umber · burnt umber · titanium white
secondary · yellow ochre · ivory black
Achieve the subtle color variations by mixing the primary colors with small amounts of secondary colors. Use white to lighten values and black to darken them.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·blending
- ·value studies
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the overall sense of atmosphere.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Using colors that are too saturated.
- →Ignoring the subtle gradations of light and shadow.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·palette
- ·linseed oil
- ·odorless mineral spirits
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
Use a canvas with a smooth surface for easier blending. Consider using a toned canvas to speed up the painting process.
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