The Art of Goya: From Court Painter to Modern Master

Goya's Life and Turbulent Times

Francisco Goya spent most of his life in Madrid. He also lived through the contradictions of the Spanish Enlightenment, experiencing the benefits of the liberalization measures enacted by Joseph Bonaparte. He also witnessed the creation of the Constitution of Cadiz (1812) and the loss of the Spanish colonies (1824). The return of Fernando VII unleashed persecution against liberals and those who had collaborated with the 'intruder' king. In 1820, the Riego revolt offered hope to Spanish liberals, and the Constitution of Cadiz was reinstated, but the intervention of the 'Hundred Thousand Sons of St. Louis' sent by the Holy Alliance led to the restoration of Fernando VII's absolute power and the beginning of a period of terror and repression. The artist was exiled to Bordeaux, where he died at age 82.

Early Life and Artistic Training

Goya emerged in Spanish art during the Neoclassicism period. In his early life, Goya was born near Zaragoza. At age 14, he entered the workshop of José Luzán. He was not a child prodigy; his mastery developed later, around age 40. He entered the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando in 1780. His famous painting Christ on the Cross was created around this time.

Royal Commissions and Developing Style

In his second stage, he received his first major commission: a series of tapestries for the Royal Tapestry Factory of Santa Bárbara. His preferred subjects were the joy of life and beauty. Goya depicted both the aristocratic classes and the life of the common people. He depicted customs through characters dressed in fine clothes. Festive representations included dances and bullfights. Even in realistic backgrounds, the artist's unique 'trace' or style is undeniable.

Influence on Modern Art Movements

His work provided a background for Realism, and later Realists acknowledged his influence. Among his published works is 'The Artist's Studio'. Impressionism incorporated his technical contributions, particularly his loose brushwork. Manet was inspired by Goya's The Third of May 1808 (the shootings in Moncloa). Expressionists reflected pain and fear, echoing works like Munch's The Scream. Fauvism, interested in freeing color from its dependence on reality, also found inspiration in Goya's approach. Surrealists, striving to express the dream world and incorporating techniques influenced by psychoanalysis, were also inspired by Goya's imaginative and often dark works. This movement was interested in themes like immersion in the world of nightmares. Goya's painting reflects the contemporary history of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, taking inspiration from man and nature.