plate no. 3384

View of the Basilica of St. Lawrence Outside the Walls

oilNeoclassicismcityscapearchitecturebuildingscityscapefiguresgatessky

some experience helpful

Recreating this image will help students understand linear perspective and how to create depth using value and detail. It will also provide practice in rendering fine details and textures using hatching and cross-hatching techniques.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch of the overall composition, focusing on the major shapes and perspective lines.
step 02
Establish the horizon line and vanishing points.
step 03
Refine the sketch, adding details to the buildings, gates, and figures.
step 04
Start shading with light pencil strokes, building up the darker areas gradually.
step 05
Use hatching and cross-hatching to create texture and depth.
step 06
Pay attention to the direction of light and shadow to create a sense of volume.
step 07
Add fine details such as windows, architectural elements, and clothing.
step 08
Review and adjust the values to create a balanced and harmonious composition.