The artwork titled “Other laws by the people or beast Absurdity” is a creative expression by the renowned artist Francisco Goya, produced between the years 1816 and 1823. Crafted through the medium of etching on paper, this piece is part of the genre known as caricature and falls under the Romanticism art movement. It is one of the distinctive works from the series “Disparate.”
This particular etching showcases an intriguing visual narrative; it features a substantial beast—an elephant—standing prominently in the foreground, its body dominating the scene. The elephant is depicted with great textural detail, emphasizing its massive form and rugged skin. To the left of the elephant, there is a contrasting group of figures that appear diminutive in scale. These figures are rendered with human-like qualities, yet their attire and demeanor suggest a caricatured representation, resonating with the intended genre of the artwork.
The setting is sparse but evocative, defined by what looks like a cavernous space with an arched exit that frames the elephant. The overall composition creates a palpable sense of absurdity, aligning with the thematic aspects of the Disparate series. Goya’s work in this period often reflected his critical perspective on society and human folly, and “Other laws by the people or beast Absurdity” continues this reflective social commentary through allegory and symbolic representation. It is evident that Goya leveraged his artistic prowess to merge realism with fantastical elements to provoke thought and challenge the status quo.