Artwork

Fuerte cosa es! (That's Tough!)

Fuerte cosa es! (That's Tough!), by Francisco Goya, ink
Fuerte cosa es! (That's Tough!), by Francisco Goya, ink

Fuerte cosa es! (That's Tough!) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Francisco Goya. It is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Fuerte cosa es!

About this work

Overview

Fuerte cosa es! (That's Tough!) is a print created by Francisco Goya in 1863, exemplifying his innovative late-period graphic work.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a chaotic riverside scene with three figures: one holding a child, another extending a long stick, and a third standing with arms crossed. The composition conveys a sense of struggle or hardship, underscored by the title's expression of resilience or exasperation.

Technique & Style

Goya combined etching, burnished aquatint, and drypoint techniques, characteristic of his experimental printmaking approach. The rough, busy lines and sharp, quick strokes generate a dynamic, tense visual language.

History & Provenance

Created in 1863, this work is part of Goya's broader graphic oeuvre, which significantly influenced later artists. However, specific provenance details are not provided.

Context

As a late work by Goya, Fuerte cosa es! reflects the artist's engagement with the tumultuous historical context of his time, though the scene's specific inspiration remains interpretative.

Legacy

This print, like much of Goya's graphic work, exerted a lasting impact on 19th- and 20th-century artists, demonstrating his pioneering role in printmaking techniques and expressive themes.

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: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.