plate no. 4063

Wladislaw I

lithographyBiedermeierportraitfigureportraitkingrobecrownscepter

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students practice rendering fabric folds and textures, as well as creating a convincing portrait with accurate proportions and details. Students will also learn to mix colors to achieve a historical look.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, focusing on the overall pose and placement on the canvas.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color: the blue robe, red sleeves, gold trim, and skin tones.
step 03
Begin adding shadows and highlights to define the form of the robe, paying attention to the folds and drapery.
step 04
Refine the details of the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth, using subtle shading to create depth.
step 05
Add the details of the crown, scepter, and orb, paying attention to the intricate designs and textures.
step 06
Work on the background, keeping it simple and neutral to avoid distracting from the figure.
step 07
Add final highlights and details to enhance the overall realism and vibrancy of the painting.
step 08
Glaze the painting to unify the colors and add depth.

color palette

primary · Prussian Blue · Cadmium Red · Yellow Ochre

secondary · Titanium White · Burnt Umber

Mix Prussian Blue with a touch of Burnt Umber for the darker shades of the robe. Use Yellow Ochre and Titanium White for the gold trim. Mix Cadmium Red with a touch of Burnt Umber for the sleeves.

techniques

·glazing
·hatching
·scumbling
·color mixing
·portraiture

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details too early in the process.
→Failing to establish a strong value structure.
→Using colors that are too saturated or unnatural.
→Ignoring the subtle shifts in color and value within the fabric folds.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·Stretched canvas (16x20 inches)
·Oil paints: Prussian Blue, Cadmium Red, Yellow Ochre, Titanium White, Burnt Umber
·Assorted brushes (round, flat, filbert)
·Palette
·Palette knife
·Odorless mineral spirits
·Linseed oil
·Rags