Drawing Akbar, one of the greatest Mughal emperors from India, is a challenging yet rewarding experience for beginners. In this step-by-step guide, we will go through the process of drawing Akbar, from the basic shapes to the final shading. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, this guide will help you improve your skills and create a stunning portrait of Akbar.
Materials you will need:
- Pencil (preferably HB or 2B)
- Eraser
- Sharpener
- Drawing paper
Step 1: Sketching the basic shapes
Start by sketching the basic shapes that make up Akbar’s face. Draw a vertical line down the middle of the page to create a midline. Then draw a horizontal line intersecting the vertical line about one-third of the way down to create the eye level.
Next, draw a large circle for his head, and two smaller circles for the eyes, placed on the eye level. Draw a small triangle nose, and a curved line for the mouth. Finally, draw two lines for the neck.
Step 2: Adding details
Now that the basic shapes are in place, it’s time to add more details to the drawing. Sketch the outlines of Akbar’s ears. Then draw his hair, paying close attention to the shape and direction of the strands.
Next, draw the eyebrows, eyelashes, and add the pupils to the eyes. Draw a beard and mustache, and use the nose as a guide to draw the nostrils. Finally, sketch the collar of Akbar’s clothing.
Step 3: Shading
Once you have added all the details, it’s time to bring the drawing to life with shading. Shade the forehead and nose bridge lightly, leaving the eyes white. Then shade the side of the face opposite the light source. Add shading to the beard, mustache, and hair.
Next, start shading the clothing collar by adding darker tones at the bottom and lighter tones at the top. Add shading to the neck as well. Continue to add shading to the rest of the drawing, creating more contrast and depth.
Tips and techniques
- Use a light touch when sketching the basic shapes to avoid leaving indents on the paper
- Study the direction of the light source and use shading to create depth and contrast
- Use a kneaded eraser to create highlights
- Experiment with different shades and textures to add more dimension to the drawing
Common mistakes to avoid
- Overwhelming the drawing with too much detail too soon
- Not using a sharp enough pencil to create finer details
- Not leaving enough room for shading and highlights
Frequently asked questions
1. How long does it take to draw Akbar?
Drawing time varies depending on skill level, but it may take anywhere from 2-4 hours.
2. Do I have to be an experienced artist to draw Akbar?
No, anyone can draw Akbar with practice and patience.
3. Can I use a different type of paper?
Yes, you can use any type of paper, but drawing paper is preferred.
4. Do I need to use a reference photo?
Using a reference photo can be helpful to ensure accuracy, but it is not necessary.
5. How can I improve my shading technique?
Practice using different shades and textures, and experiment with blending techniques.
6. Can I use a mechanical pencil?
Yes, you can use a mechanical pencil, but it may be harder to create lighter shades.