Thanks to the millet (Gracias á la almorta)
Original title: Plate 51 from "The Disasters of War" (Los Desastres de la Guerra): 'Thanks to the millet' (Gracias á la almorta)
kurzbeschreibung
Around a figure lying on the ground, several people gather in a bare, gloomy setting. This image comes from plate 51 of Francisco de Goya's etching series 'The Disasters of War' (Los Desastres de la Guerra), titled 'Gracias á la almorta' (Thanks to the Grass Pea). It was made in 1811–12 as an etching with burnished aquatint.
Description
A group of people has clustered in a desolate, dark landscape around a person stretched out on the ground. Some of those standing around clasp their hands in prayer or raise them, while others appear downcast and worried. A sparse, subdued light falls on the figure on the ground and picks it out. The layout is markedly asymmetrical, and the arrangement of the figures directs the viewer's eye to the central figure.
Context
This print belongs to a series of 82 etchings that Goya created between 1810 and 1820 during the Napoleonic occupation of Spain (1808–1814), and which was not published until 1863, long after his death. The title 'Gracias á la almorta' refers to the grass pea (Lathyrus sativus): in times of famine it served as food, but excessive consumption could cause paralysis. Goya thus addresses the famine in Madrid of 1811 to 1812, which claimed numerous lives.
Impact
The prevailing grey tonality and the restrained light create an oppressive, serious mood. By directing attention to the figure on the ground and the reactions of those standing around, a poignant human tragedy unfolds that immediately moves the viewer.
Technique
Goya worked with etching and burnished aquatint. This method allows fine tonal gradations and a dark handling of light. The artist used it to achieve strong contrasts of light and dark and to intensify the emotional force of the scene.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)