The artwork “Bad night” by Francisco Goya is an etching on paper that dates back to the year 1799. This piece is a part of “Los Caprichos,” a series that highlights the Romanticism movement, and is known for its caricature genre. The work measures approximately 21.8 x 15.5 cm and is currently held in a private collection.
Describing the artwork, one observes a scene steeped in shadow and nuance. The composition features a central figure enshrouded in drapery that billows around, suggesting turbulent movement. The figure’s posture appears off-balance; they are either in a state of contortion or caught in mid-motion, the precise nature of which is unclear due to the complexity of the folds and angles of the fabric.
Despite the overall darkness of the scene, the use of light and shadow masterfully enhances the visceral textures and the sense of depth. The title, “Bad night,” is etched at the bottom, adding a narrative element to the work, signifying that the depicted scene is one fraught with distress or turmoil. The figure’s face, partially visible, carries an expression that can be interpreted as one of discomfort or fear, an emotional state that is reinforced by the chaotic disposition of the surrounding fabric, encapsulating a moment of dramatic intensity.
