Artwork

Even Thus He Cannot Make Her Out, Plate 7

Even Thus He Cannot Make Her Out, Plate 7, by Francisco Goya, 1799
Even Thus He Cannot Make Her Out, Plate 7, by Francisco Goya, 1799

Even Thus He Cannot Make Her Out, Plate 7 is a print by the Romanticist artist Francisco Goya. It dates from 1799 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Even Thus He Cannot Make Her Out, Plate 7 is a print created by Francisco de Goya around 1799, currently part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a scene of three figures in a shadowy environment. A man in rustic attire intently examines a woman's hand, while another woman sits detached in the background. The title suggests the man's inability to discern or comprehend the woman despite his close proximity.

Technique & Style

Goya employs chiaroscuro, a technique characterized by strong contrasts between light and dark, to create a sense of depth and tension. A singular patch of light illuminates the woman's face, set against dark, unevenly lit surroundings.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1799, the work is now held in the collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Context

This print reflects Goya's exploration of human interaction and perception during the late 18th century, potentially touching on themes of mystery, intimacy, and the limitations of understanding others.

Legacy

As part of Goya's oeuvre, the print contributes to the artist's reputation for psychologically complex and visually innovative works, influencing subsequent artists in their use of chiaroscuro and thematic depth.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Francisco Goya

Artist

Francisco Goya

Francisco José de Goya y Lucientes (; Spanish: ; 30 March 1746 – 16 April 1828) was a Spanish romantic painter and printmaker.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.