The artwork “Saturn” is an oil on canvas painting by Francisco Goya, created between 1819 and 1823. It belongs to the Romanticism art movement and measures 83 x 146 cm. This mythological painting is part of the renowned “Black Paintings” series and is housed at the Museo del Prado in Madrid.
Depicting a harrowing scene from Roman mythology, the artwork presents Saturn (the Roman equivalent of the Greek Cronus) in the midst of devouring one of his own children. Goya’s interpretation is gruesome and visceral, with Saturn’s wild eyes and gaping mouth conveying a sense of madness and desperation. His hands firmly grasp the body of his offspring, whose limbs appear limp, accentuating the violence of the act. The dark palette and rough, energetic brushstrokes add a sense of chaos and emotional turmoil, representing the depth of the artist’s vision and the bleak outlook of this period in his career. The scene is both tragic and monstrous, showcasing Goya’s ability to capture the darker aspects of human nature and mythology.
