plate no. 8692

Triptych of the Mystical Marriage of St. Catherine of Alexandria, right wing: Scene of St. John the Evangelist in Patmos

oil, panelNorthern Renaissancereligious paintingfigurelandscapereligious scenerainbowhorsesbook

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in depicting complex scenes with multiple figures and landscapes, as well as understanding the use of symbolism in art. It also provides practice in rendering realistic textures and drapery.

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 major compositional elements: the figure of St. John, the landscape, and the circular vision.
step 02
Establish the basic color blocks for the sky, landscape, and figure, using thin washes of color.
step 03
Develop the landscape by adding details to the hills, water, and figures on horseback.
step 04
Focus on the figure of St. John, carefully rendering the drapery folds and facial features.
step 05
Begin to build up the circular vision, starting with the rainbow and then adding the figures and details within.
step 06
Refine the details in the vision, paying attention to the light and shadow to create depth.
step 07
Add final details and highlights to the entire painting, ensuring a cohesive and balanced composition.
step 08
Varnish the painting to protect the surface and enhance the colors.

color palette

primary · red ochre · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · viridian green · burnt umber · cadmium yellow light

Mix various shades of red by combining red ochre with white and a touch of burnt umber for shadows. Achieve the sky colors by mixing ultramarine blue with white and a touch of yellow for highlights.

techniques