The artwork in question is a self-portrait by Francisco Goya, dated to the year 1795. It is executed in oil on canvas and is modest in size, measuring 18.2 by 12.2 centimeters. This piece is a manifestation of the Romanticism movement, which often emphasized emotion and individualism. Currently, the artwork is housed in the Museo del Prado, located in Madrid, Spain, and belongs to the genre of self-portrait, providing an intimate glimpse into the artist’s self-perception during that period.
The self-portrait by Francisco Goya presents a deeply personal representation of the artist. Goya has rendered his features with a candid and unembellished realism characteristic of his work. Compared to the grandeur often associated with the Romanticism’s sweeping landscapes and dramatic scenes, this portrait fixates on the individual, offering a more introspective and personal view. The expression on Goya’s face is intense and thoughtful, capturing a sense of gravitas and perhaps a hint of the turmoil or weariness that can accompany the life of an artist. The brushwork appears loose and expressive, while the palette seems restrained, relying on a range of tones that evoke the artist’s somber mood. It is a powerful example of self-examination and the conveyance of psychological depth, hallmarks of Romantic art that celebrate the profundity of the individual spirit.
