How I do my Old Masters reproductions
Hiring a Professional: If you want a reproduction, HERE YOU ARE HIRING A PROFESSIONAL ARTIST SPECIALIZED REPRODUCTION STUDIO. Creating a high-quality handmade oil reproduction of a Leonardo Da Vinci painting is a meticulous and skilled process.
Here's an overview of the steps typically involved in such a project:
1. Selection of the Artwork. I choose carefully the Leonardo Da Vinci painting to be reproduced from museum and a specialized sources. Some of his most famous works include: Mona Lisa, The Last Supper, Vitruvian Man, Lady with an Ermine, The Annunciation, etc.
2. Gathering References. I analyse a high-resolution images of the original artwork from various angles and lighting conditions. Art books, museum archives, and online databases are valuable resources.
3. Materials and Tools Canvas: High-quality linen or cotton canvas, primed for oil painting.Oil Paints: Professional-grade oil paints to match the color palette used by Da Vinci. Brushes: A range of fine brushes for detailed work. Palette: For mixing colors. Easel: For supporting the canvas while painting.Mediums and Solvents: For mixing with oil paints and cleaning brushes.
4. Preparing the Canvas Stretch the canvas on a frame and apply a gesso primer to ensure a smooth and stable surface.
5. Drawing the Outline. Lightly sketch the outline of the painting using a pencil or charcoal. This step is crucial for accurate proportions and composition.
6. Underpainting. Create an underpainting with a monochromatic (often brown or grey) layer to establish values and tones. This serves as a guide for the final colors.
7. Layering the Paint Blocking In: Application the base colors to different areas of the painting.
Detailing: Gradually adding details, working from general to specific.
Glazing: Applying thin layers of transparent paint to achieve depth and luminosity.
Scumbling: Using semi-transparent layers to create texture and modify colors.
8. Final Touches: Refine detalization and correction any inaccuracies to ensure the painting has the desired contrast and color balance.
9. Drying and Varnishing: Drying process is controlled, which can take several weeks. Finally, varnishing process to enhance the colors and protect the surface.
10. Framing: Selecting a frame complements the artwork and provides protection. Contact for samples.
11. Techniques: Study Da Vinci's techniques, such as sfumato (a method of blending colors and tones) and his use of light and shadow.
12. Considerations for Authenticity: The Certificate of authenticity signed by the artist Olga Begisheva K. is included for all reproductions.
Materials: I use period-appropriate materials and tools to mimic the original as closely as possible.
