The Grisaille is Finished! Ready to start the finish work.

At some point in the painting of each portrait, I usually fall in love with the painting. That happened with the painting of the lace on this blouse. Now the lace isn't finished, although the Grisaille stage of this painting is finished (with the small exception of the pearls), but I think the early work was some of my best work yet. I can't wait to get the work on the next stage.

I believe the reason I enjoyed the painting of the lace was the new inspiration I got from visiting the MFAH to see the "Dutch and Flemish Masterworks". I've always shied away from lace because it is very hard to do. The Dutch and Flemish painters did it better than almost anyone and it IS beautiful. Let's see how well I finish the lace this time.

I'll probably glaze the painting soon and start the final stages.

REMEMBER! This is a SURPRISE for the subjects husband! You can tell her how beautiful she is, but NOT him!.