Who painted There They Go Plucked, Plate 20?

There They Go Plucked, Plate 20 was painted by Francisco Goya in 1799.

Where can I see There They Go Plucked, Plate 20?

There They Go Plucked, Plate 20 is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artwork

There They Go Plucked, Plate 20

There They Go Plucked, Plate 20 is a print by Francisco Goya. It dates from 1799 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

There They Go Plucked, Plate 20 is a print by Francisco de Goya, dating to circa 1799. It is part of the collection at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a chaotic, dimly lit interior scene with multiple figures. A woman in white, holding a torch aloft, is central, surrounded by scrambling individuals, one of whom is bent over with a broom. A dog and a bird in flight near the torch add to the commotion. The title suggests an act of 'plucking,' though the specific subject or metaphor remains ambiguous.

Technique & Style

As a print, the work showcases Goya's skill in capturing dynamic, expressive scenes through line and shading. The emphasis on torchlight creates strong contrasts, typical of Goya's use of chiaroscuro to evoke mood and tension.

History & Provenance

Created around 1799, the print's early history is not detailed here. It is currently housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art, where it is accessible to the public.

Context

Part of Goya's broader oeuvre exploring themes of chaos, mystery, and possibly social commentary, this work reflects his interest in capturing the complexities and intrigues of human behavior.

Legacy

While not individually renowned in broad popular culture, 'There They Go Plucked, Plate 20' contributes to Goya's reputation as a master of expressive, enigmatic, and psychologically complex artworks, influencing later artists in their depiction of indoor dramas and use of light.