Artwork

children inflating a bladder

children inflating a bladder, by Francisco Goya, oil, 1790
children inflating a bladder, by Francisco Goya, oil, 1790

children inflating a bladder is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Francisco Goya. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.

About this work

Overview

Children Inflating a Bladder is an oil painting created by Francisco Goya in 1790. It is part of the Museo del Prado's collection and associated with the Rococo movement.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a mundane scene of two boys in a natural setting, one inflating a bladder while the other assists, with a woman and child in the background, conveying a sense of everyday life.

Technique & Style

Goya employs warm colors and soft lighting to create intimacy and tranquility, while his manipulation of light and shadow adds depth and realism to the composition.

History & Provenance

Created in 1790, the work is characteristic of Goya's transitional style between traditional and modern art, reflecting his innovative approach that would later influence other painters.

Context

As a leading figure in late 18th- to early 19th-century Spanish art, Goya's work often engaged with contemporary social themes, bridging the gap between the Old Masters and the emergence of modern art.

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.

Museo del Prado

Museum

Museo del Prado

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Museo del Prado open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.