Portraits & Caricatures Portraits & Caricature 3

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the purpose of a 'likeness test' in caricature art?

Accepted Answer

Checking whether the image is recognizable as the specific subject without a label

Answer

A successful caricature must pass the likeness test—a viewer should identify the subject immediately, even without a name or caption.

Question 2

In oil portrait painting, what is the purpose of the 'dead layer' (grisaille) underpainting?

Accepted Answer

To establish value structure and composition before applying color glazes

Answer

Grisaille underpainting establishes a full value map in neutral gray or earth tones, over which transparent color glazes are later applied.

Question 3

Which facial feature is typically the most difficult to capture in a portrait likeness and requires the most careful observation?

Accepted Answer

The mouth and lips

Answer

The mouth is the most mobile and expressive feature, and subtle differences in its shape, width, and lip thickness are critical for capturing a true likeness.

Question 4

What caricature technique involves dramatically reducing the body relative to the head to amplify personality?

Accepted Answer

Big head / small body proportion

Answer

Giving the subject a large, detailed head on a tiny body is a classic caricature device that emphasizes character and personality traits.

Question 5

In the Flemish portrait tradition, what was the common practice of applying a warm ground color before painting flesh tones?

Accepted Answer

Applying a reddish-brown or ochre imprimatura over white gesso

Answer

Flemish painters applied a warm imprimatura (a transparent tinted ground) that glowed through subsequent layers, warming all flesh tones from within.

Portraits & Caricatures Practice Test

Portraits & Caricatures Practice Test

Portraits & Caricatures Portraits & Caricature 3