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Untitled by Edwin Austin Abbey

plate no. 4548

Untitled

Edwin Austin Abbey

oilRomanticismportraitportraitfigurequeencrownrobescepter
experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering complex fabrics and textures. It also provides practice in creating a dramatic and atmospheric composition.

technical profile

palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Begin with a light sketch to establish the overall composition and proportions of the figure.

  2. step 02

    Block in the main shapes of the figure and background using thin washes of color.

  3. step 03

    Establish the darkest values in the background and shadows to create depth.

  4. step 04

    Begin layering the yellow robe, paying attention to the folds and highlights.

  5. step 05

    Mix and apply the various shades of yellow, adding subtle variations to create a sense of realism.

  6. step 06

    Refine the details of the face, crown, and jewelry, using small brushes and precise strokes.

  7. step 07

    Add the final details, such as the patterns in the background and the texture of the fabric.

  8. step 08

    Adjust the values and colors as needed to create a cohesive and harmonious painting.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · raw umber · ivory black

secondary · burnt sienna · titanium white · ultramarine blue

Mix yellow ochre with white for highlights, and add raw umber or burnt sienna for shadows. Use ultramarine blue to darken the blacks and create cool shadows.

techniques

  • ·layering
  • ·glazing
  • ·dry brushing
  • ·scumbling
  • ·chiaroscuro

common pitfalls

  • →Getting the proportions of the figure wrong.
  • →Overworking the details and losing the overall impression.
  • →Using too much paint and creating a muddy effect.
  • →Failing to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·stretched canvas 18x24
  • ·oil paints
  • ·palette
  • ·assorted brushes (round, flat, filbert)
  • ·linseed oil
  • ·turpentine
  • ·palette knife
  • ·rags

optional

  • ·medium gloss
  • ·retouch varnish
  • ·easel

Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Pre-tinting the canvas with a thin wash of raw umber can help create a warm underpainting.

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oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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