plate no. 4560

Two Breton Women under a Flowering Apple Tree

oil, canvasCloisonnismgenre paintingfigureswomentreesflowerslandscapefoliage

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying forms and using color to create a sense of depth and atmosphere. It will also encourage experimentation with visible brushstrokes to add texture and interest.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main shapes: the figures, tree, and overall composition.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color: the background foliage, the figures' clothing, and the flowers.
step 03
Start defining the shapes of the figures, paying attention to the light and shadow on their faces and clothing.
step 04
Add details to the tree and flowers, using short, broken brushstrokes to create texture.
step 05
Refine the background foliage, using a variety of greens and browns to create depth.
step 06
Add highlights and shadows to the figures and clothing to create a sense of form.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and contrast to create a harmonious composition.
step 08
Add final details and refine the brushwork.

color palette

primary · red · green · brown · black

secondary · pink · white · yellow ochre

Mix various shades of green by combining yellow ochre, black, and a touch of red. Achieve the pink flowers by mixing white with a small amount of red.

techniques