Plate 6 from "Los Caprichos": Nobody knows himself (Nadie se conoce)
Original title: Plate 6 from "Los Caprichos": Nobody knows himself (Nadie se conoce)
kurzbeschreibung
From 1799 comes Plate 6 of Francisco de Goya's 'Los Caprichos'. It presents a masquerade. Executed as an etching with burnished aquatint, the print features a woman and two men in disguise. The title 'Nobody Knows Himself' targets pretence and self-deception in society.
Description
A woman dominates the foreground: a long light dress with dark ruffles at the hem, a mask over her face, her gaze directed at the other figures. Beside her stands a masked man in a dark fur-trimmed coat and a tall striped hat. Behind them appears another masked figure with a hat and feather. The background remains dark and undefined, making the figures stand out clearly. At the bottom edge one reads 'Nadie se conoce'.
Context
Between 1797 and 1799 Goya created 'Los Caprichos', a series of 80 etchings that satirically scourge the follies and vices of Spanish society. Plate 6 is among the early prints that deal with masquerade and self-delusion. The series was published in 1799 but was withdrawn from sale soon afterwards because of its fierce criticism of the nobility and clergy.
Impact
Gloomy and rich in contrast, the image spreads an uncanny, enigmatic mood. The masks underscore the anonymity and pretence of those depicted. This prompts reflection on identity and truth.
Technique
Etching with burnished aquatint allows finely graded tones. By partially burnishing the aquatint, soft transitions and atmospheric depth were achieved. Goya used this method to create striking chiaroscuro contrasts.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)