Over the past decade I have been studying and researching the technology of old masters paintings. I have also been applying that knowledge in the preparation of replicas. I usually copy the available artwork “in situ”; while looking at the original, or I copy from photographs and posters of very high resolution that are taken from the parent museum or from the database of art galleries on the Internet.
The process of making replica starts with analyses of the preparation of the original support base and the texture of the surface. I analyze the structure and methods of applying the prime coats, subsequent layers of paint and the structure of the brush strokes. After that I examine whether the artist applied the underpainting and how it affects the luminescence. Each surface on which I paint is prepared individually based on historical methods and according to the texture and structure of the original. I apply extremely smooth gesso, which is particularly good when imitating works painted on wood, or a thin ground with visible texture of the canvas.
It is relevant to follow the same painting procedure as the original painter. First step is to draw the preparatory sketch with all necessary details. Next step is to apply underpainting that forms an initial layer of paint and serves as a base for the subsequent layers. It is often monochromatic and it helps to define color values for latter painting. I use several different types of underpainting, such as verdaccio and grisaille. New paint layers are usually applied as transparent coats, in order to bring out the hue of the paint in the layer immediately beneath. This is crucial for obtaining all the hues of the original paint layer.
Every painting demands an individual approach in copying. The most complicated pieces often present a real challenge, especially when it comes to the indistinguishable color patterns of impressionists or extremely delicate sfumato technique. The most important thing is that the finished copy evokes exactly the same feelings as the original masterpiece. Then I have succeeded.
