The artwork titled “Manuel Silvela” is a striking oil on canvas portrait by the renowned artist Francisco Goya, created approximately between 1809 and 1812 during the Romanticism art movement. Measuring 95 by 68 centimeters, this portrait is part of the collection at the Museo del Prado in Madrid, Spain, where it is displayed for public viewing.
The artwork showcases a man of gentle demeanor, captured in half-length, set against a dark, indistinct background that focuses attention on the subject. The figure is adorned in attire consistent with the era, characterized by a brown coat and a vividly colored cravat that adds a subtle dash of brightness to the composition. The man’s expression conveys a sense of calm intelligence, with his eyes gently engaging the viewer, offering a glimpse into his persona.
Goya’s use of lighting draws attention to the man’s facial features, including his high forehead, the soft curve of his nose, and the faintest hint of a smile playing on his lips. The artist’s adept brushwork is evident in the depiction of the textures of the man’s clothing, as well as the realistic rendering of his skin. Overall, the artwork embodies the Romantic spirit with its focus on the individual and the emotional nuance captured within the man’s expression, making it a quintessential example of Goya’s prowess in portraiture.
