Artwork
La lealtad (Loyalty)
La lealtad (Loyalty) is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Francisco Goya. It dates from 1816 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
La lealtad (Loyalty) is a print by Francisco de Goya, created through a combination of etching and burnished aquatint techniques. The work was produced in 1816 but not printed until after the artist's death, with this trial proof dating to circa 1854-1863.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a chaotic scene of figures on horseback, conveying a sense of tension and urgency. The image is associated with the theme of loyalty, although its specific subject is open to interpretation within the context of Goya's broader exploration of human virtues.
Technique & Style
Goya employed burnished aquatint to achieve a range of tonal values, from deep blacks to nuanced grays, which adds to the dynamic and expressive quality of the scene. The contrast between the dark background and the highlighted figures creates a sense of drama.
History & Provenance
La lealtad was created during a period of significant social and political upheaval in Spain. The print was not printed until decades after its creation, with this particular impression being a trial proof produced posthumously.
Artist & collection
Artist
Francisco José de Goya y Lucientes (; Spanish: ; 30 March 1746 – 16 April 1828) was a Spanish romantic painter and printmaker.
Disparate de Carnabal (Carnival Folly)
Disparate de Carnabal (Carnival Folly)
Disparate general (General Folly)
The Proverbs: General Folly
Disparate desordenado (Disorderly Folly)
Disparate furioso (Furious Folly)
The Proverbs: Poor Folly
Disparate furioso (Furious Folly)
The Proverbs: Matrimonial Folly
The Proverbs: Loyalty