plate no. 3765

William Gordon of Fyvie (British Army Officer)

oil, canvasRococoportraitfigureportraitarchitectureskytreesstatue

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering fabrics with complex patterns. It also provides practice in creating atmospheric perspective and depicting architectural details.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the overall composition and proportions of the figure, architecture, and statue.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color, focusing on the background sky, the figure's clothing, and the statue's form.
step 03
Develop the values and details of the face, paying close attention to the light and shadow to create a realistic likeness.
step 04
Work on the intricate patterns of the tartan fabric, using thin glazes to build up the colors and textures.
step 05
Add details to the architectural elements, focusing on the perspective and the effects of light and shadow.
step 06
Refine the details of the statue, capturing its form and texture with subtle variations in tone.
step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the overall sense of depth and realism.
step 08
Varnish the painting to protect the surface and enhance the colors.

color palette

primary · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · burnt umber · ivory black · viridian green

Mix various shades of red, blue, and green to create the tartan pattern. Use yellow ochre and white to create the statue's color. Mix ultramarine blue and white for the sky.

techniques