Mucho hay que chupar. 1796 - 1797

"Mucho hay que chupar.", or "There is much to suck" is a haunting print by Francisco Goya, made as part of his series *Los Caprichos* during the late 1790s in Spain. Goya, working in a period of political upheaval, created this etching as a dark commentary on his society. The print depicts three grotesque, witch-like figures huddled together. One holds a small box, while a basket full of babies lies at their feet, the ominous bats circling overhead contribute to the disturbing atmosphere. Goya was deeply critical of the social structures of his time, and *Los Caprichos* served as a vehicle to critique the aristocracy and clergy, who he believed were exploiting the common people. The monstrous women in the image can be seen as symbols of the corruption and decay Goya saw within the Spanish ruling class. The title, "Mucho hay que chupar," suggests a parasitic relationship, hinting at those in power profiting at the expense of the vulnerable. It evokes a sense of unease, inviting us to reflect on the darker aspects of human nature and the ways in which power can be abused. Goya forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about the society we inhabit, and in the emotional depths of the print, perhaps, ourselves.