plate no. 9100

Tribute Money

oilBaroquereligious paintingfiguresreligious scenemoneywritingfishrobes

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students understand chiaroscuro and how to create dramatic lighting effects. It will also teach them how to render realistic figures and drapery.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures.
step 02
Establish the dark background using a thin wash of dark brown.
step 03
Block in the main areas of light and shadow on the figures.
step 04
Develop the details of the faces, hands, and drapery, paying attention to the light source.
step 05
Refine the edges and blend the transitions between light and shadow.
step 06
Add highlights to create a sense of depth and realism.
step 07
Paint the details of the money, fish, and writing.
step 08
Glaze with thin layers of color to unify the painting and enhance the shadows.

color palette

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

secondary · cadmium red · yellow ochre

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining umber, black, and white. Use red and yellow ochre sparingly to add warmth to the skin tones and drapery.

techniques