The artwork titled “A Gift for the Master” is an engraving on paper created by the venerable artist Francisco Goya in 1799. This piece is part of the “Los Caprichos” series and is characterized by its Romanticism style. The artwork’s dimensions are 21.5 x 15.5 cm, and its genre can be described as caricature. Presently, it is housed at the Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF) in Paris, France.
In the artwork, one immediately notices the dramatic, sketch-like style typical of Goya’s work from this period. A central figure appears to lie prostrate, surrounded by other figures with exaggerated grimaces and gestures. They seem to be engaged in some form of an unsettling interaction, potentially indicative of folly or moral corruption, themes often explored by Goya. The caption, “Obsequio a el maestro,” suggests an offering or a courtship of favor with a master, hinting at a critique of social or institutional pandering. The use of dark tones and stark contrasts in the engraving enhances the mood of tension and commentary on human folly, making it a compelling example of Goya’s critical eye and Romantic sensibilities.
