Artwork

Y son fieras (And They Are Like Wild Beasts)

Y son fieras (And They Are Like Wild Beasts), by Francisco Goya, ink
Y son fieras (And They Are Like Wild Beasts), by Francisco Goya, ink

Y son fieras (And They Are Like Wild Beasts) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Francisco Goya. It is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Y son fieras (And They Are Like Wild Beasts) is a print created by Francisco José de Goya y Lucientes in 1863, combining etching, burnished aquatint, and drypoint techniques.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a chaotic scene of distressed individuals in turmoil, set against a dark and ominous background, conveying a sense of tension and unease. The imagery critiques human cruelty and folly, reflecting Goya's concerns with the social and political issues of his time.

Technique & Style

Goya's experimental fusion of etching methods achieves a loose, expressive style, characterized by bold lines and vivid contrasts, capturing the emotional intensity of the scene.

Context

This print is part of Goya's later graphic series, produced during a period of artistic transition, and reflects his ongoing engagement with the social and political turmoil of his era.

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.