The artwork titled “Don Andres del Peral” is an oil on panel portrait painted by Francisco Goya in 1798. Goya, an influential Spanish painter, was a significant figure in the Romanticism movement, and this work is characteristic of that period. The portrait measures 95 cm by 65.7 cm and is currently housed in the National Gallery in London, United Kingdom. It is a powerful representation of the individual, emphasizing emotional expression and the subject’s character, as was common in the Romantic style.
The portrait depicts a man of significance, as suggested by his confident and direct gaze toward the viewer. The subject, Don Andres del Peral, is seated against a dark, undefined background which serves to draw attention to his figure. He is dressed in attire that reflects his social status, wearing a coat of muted green with a velvet-like texture, which creates subtle plays of light and shadow. Underneath the coat, the man wears a waistcoat that is adorned with fine patterns, paired with a white, ruffled cravat that highlights his neck and adds to the impression of refinement.
The brushwork conveys a sense of both precision and ease, a testament to Goya’s mastery of the medium. The light is skillfully manipulated to accentuate the subject’s facial features and the texture of the fabrics. The subject’s expression is somewhat enigmatic, capturing both the dignity and the inner life of the individual. The detailing in the face and attire suggests not just the likeness but also the character of the person, in line with the objective of portraiture during the Romantic era.
