The artwork titled “Still life of Sheep’s Ribs and Head – The Butcher’s Counter” by Francisco Goya dates back to the period between 1810 and 1812. Created using oil on canvas, it belongs to the Romanticism art movement and measures 45 x 62 cm in dimensions. Representing the still life genre, this work resides in the prestigious Louvre Museum located in Paris, France.
In formal analysis, the artwork provides a stark and unembellished depiction of butchered sheep parts, with a visceral precision that can evoke an emotional response from the viewer. The composition consists of a sheep’s head and ribs, with the focus heavily on the textural qualities of the animal remains. The color palette is fairly muted, with naturalistic hues that emphasize the organic subject matter. Goya’s use of contrast between the dark background and the lighter, flesh-toned colors of the sheep parts brings a dramatic emphasis to the subjects.
The painting foregoes any background elements that might distract from the subject, creating a simplicity that directs the viewer’s attention solely to the butchered sheep. There is a palpable sense of mortality in the work, in line with the Romantic fascination with death, nature, and the ephemeral nature of life. Overall, Goya’s “Still life of Sheep’s Ribs and Head – The Butcher’s Counter” is a powerful example of still life that not only captures the immediate physical attributes of its subject but also invites deeper reflections on the themes of existence and human consumption.
