plate no. 4814

Twenty Minutes Past Three

oilImpressionismgenre paintingfigureinteriorlamptablefurnitureroom

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to depict light and shadow in an interior scene and how to create a sense of depth using color and value.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure, table, and lamp.
step 02
Establish the overall color scheme with a thin wash of warm reds and browns for the background and floor.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure's dress, using a mix of blues and whites.
step 04
Define the light source (the lamp) and begin to build up the highlights and shadows on the table and surrounding objects.
step 05
Add details to the figure, such as the collar and sleeves, paying attention to the way the light falls on them.
step 06
Refine the details of the furniture and other objects in the room, using small brushstrokes to create texture.
step 07
Adjust the values and colors throughout the painting to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to the lamp and the objects on the table.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · ultramarine blue · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · cadmium red

Mix burnt umber and ultramarine blue to create the dark shadows. Use titanium white to lighten the blues and create highlights on the dress. Mix yellow ochre and cadmium red to create the warm glow of the lamp.

techniques