plate no. 7045

Tzar Ivan the Terrible asks Abbot Cornelius to mow him to the monks

oilRealismhistory paintingfiguresinteriormonkshistoricalwindowcarpet

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, composition with multiple subjects, and rendering textures like fabric and fur. It also provides practice in creating a sense of depth and atmosphere through color and value.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a rough sketch to establish the composition and placement of figures.
step 02
Block in the main shapes and colors of the background and figures.
step 03
Develop the values and details of the figures, starting with the faces and hands.
step 04
Add details to the clothing and other objects, paying attention to texture and light.
step 05
Refine the background and create a sense of depth.
step 06
Add highlights and shadows to create contrast and dimension.
step 07
Adjust colors and values to create a harmonious overall effect.
step 08
Add final details and refine the edges of the forms.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · raw sienna

Achieve the dark robes by mixing ivory black with burnt umber and a touch of ultramarine blue. Create the skin tones by mixing titanium white, yellow ochre, and cadmium red. Use raw sienna and burnt umber for the wooden interior.

techniques