plate no. 8619

Ultima Cena

oilBaroquereligious paintingfigurestableinteriorreligious scenearchitecturefood

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, composition, and the use of chiaroscuro to create dramatic lighting effects. Students will also learn to mix and apply a limited palette of earth tones to achieve a sense of depth and realism.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a rough sketch of the composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the table.
step 02
Block in the main areas of light and shadow using thin washes of burnt umber and raw sienna.
step 03
Begin to develop the figures, paying attention to the proportions and anatomy.
step 04
Add details to the faces and clothing, using small brushes and careful brushstrokes.
step 05
Work on the background, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 06
Add highlights and shadows to the table and food, using a palette knife or small brush.
step 07
Refine the details and adjust the values to create a cohesive and dramatic image.
step 08
Add final glazes to unify the colors and create a sense of depth.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · ivory black

Mix burnt umber and raw sienna to create a range of warm browns. Add titanium white to lighten the colors and create highlights. Use ivory black sparingly to create shadows and depth.

techniques