The artwork titled “Asmodea / Fantastic Vision” was created by the esteemed artist Francisco Goya between 1820 and 1823. This oil on canvas painting is a part of the celebrated “Black Paintings” series, which is known for its dark thematic elements and stylistic approach that aligns with the Romanticism art movement. The genre painting measures 123 x 265 cm and is currently housed in the esteemed Museo del Prado in Madrid, Spain.
“Asmodea / Fantastic Vision” depicts an enigmatic and somewhat ominous scene, with figures that appear to be floating or in movement against a barren landscape. Centrally placed are two prominent figures that ride an ambiguous and amorphous form, giving an impression of flying or swooping over the terrain. The figure at the forward position gestures pointedly to distant locations, perhaps directing the gaze of the viewer as well as the second figure, who seems to look on with an expression of amazement or concern. Beneath this central spectacle, a group of individuals and animals are scattered across the lower part of the artwork, appearing to go about their lives seemingly unaware of the presence above them. The color palette is subdued, with earthy tones dominating the scene, and the painting conveys a sense of mystery and unease, with an underlying tension that is characteristic of Goya’s later works.
Overall, “Asmodea / Fantastic Vision” reflects the turbulent state of Goya’s mind and the socio-political unrest of his time, merging the real with the surreal in a manner that leaves much to interpretation and continues to invite analysis and discussion among art historians and enthusiasts.
