plate no. 1672
What Have We Done to Angels?
experienced study
This painting would help students develop skills in rendering complex textures and drapery, as well as understanding how to create a focal point within a busy composition. It also provides practice in painting figures and capturing subtle variations in light and shadow.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 30 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a preliminary sketch to establish the composition and proportions of the main elements.
- step 02
Block in the main shapes and colors of the background, cross, and angel figure.
- step 03
Begin refining the details of the angel, paying close attention to the folds of the drapery and the texture of the wings.
- step 04
Develop the details of the cross and the surrounding sculptural elements, focusing on the interplay of light and shadow.
- step 05
Add the red drapery, carefully observing how it drapes and folds around the cross.
- step 06
Refine the details of the faces of the cherubs, capturing their expressions.
- step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of depth and realism.
- step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting, making any necessary adjustments.
color palette
primary · red · gold · brown · ivory
secondary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · ultramarine blue
Achieve the gold tones by mixing yellow ochre, burnt sienna, and a touch of white. Create the red drapery by mixing a crimson base with touches of brown and black for shadows, and white for highlights.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·rendering textures
- ·drapery studies
common pitfalls
- →Getting lost in the details too early without establishing the overall composition.
- →Failing to accurately capture the proportions of the figures.
- →Overworking the painting and losing the freshness of the initial layers.
- →Ignoring the subtle variations in color and value.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas
- ·Oil paints (red, gold, brown, ivory, yellow ochre, burnt umber, ultramarine blue)
- ·Assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·Palette
- ·Linseed oil
- ·Odorless mineral spirits
- ·Palette knife
optional
- ·Retouch varnish
- ·Medium (e.g., Liquin)
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Consider using a toned canvas to establish a base color.
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