Folly of Fear (ca. 1815–19 (published ca. 1848))
Original title: 'Folly of Fear' from the 'Disparates' (Follies / Irrationalities)
kurzbeschreibung
Francisco de Goya made the etching "Folly of Fear" around 1815–19 as part of his "Disparates" (Follies) series, though it was not published until about 1848. The plate measures 24.5 × 34.7 cm and presents a nocturnal scene: a central figure in light clothing is surrounded by armed figures lying on the ground. Technically, Goya combines etching, burnished aquatint and drypoint.
Description
An upright figure in a long white robe anchors the front of the image; seen in profile, its stance wavers between violent agitation and rigidity. The fabric billows as if a sudden movement has just occurred, yet the face remains hidden. Behind it, several people lie on the ground, their features also indecipherable, which heightens the unease. Another person rises and holds a weapon—a sign of confrontation or struggle. Gloomy lighting and almost entirely black-and-white tonal values drive the chaos and restlessness forward.
Context
The "Disparates" emerged in Goya's late years, after he had withdrawn from court service and was living in his country house, "La Quinta del Sordo." During the artist's lifetime these etchings remained unpublished; the first edition was issued around 1848 by the Royal Academy of San Fernando. Thematically, the series follows on from the "Caprichos" and the "Disasters of War," circling around human follies, fears and social irrationality. In this phase Goya worked increasingly without a patron and developed a freer, more subjective visual language.
Impact
An oppressive, nightmarish mood hangs over the print, brought about by the asymmetrical distribution of the figures and the unclear relationships between actions. A definitive resolution of the narrative is missing; the viewer is left with lingering unease and reflection. The restriction to grey tones and the rough texture give the work a raw, immediate force.
Technique
The print was made using a combination of etching, burnished aquatint and drypoint. The aquatint produces soft tonal gradations, while the drypoint sets sharp, forceful lines. Together they create a rich texture of fine shading and contrasting areas that supports the sombre mood. The plate measures 24.5 × 34.7 cm, the sheet 34.2 × 47.5 cm—dimensions that suggest a generous margin and a representative presentation.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)