Ikke fra dem (11) 1810 - 1820

Editor: We are looking at “Ikke fra dem (11)” by Francisco de Goya, created between 1810 and 1820. It's currently housed at the SMK in Copenhagen and appears to be a print, maybe an engraving. It feels incredibly dark and chaotic. What do you see in this piece in terms of its formal construction? Curator: Observe how Goya manipulates light and shadow, creating stark contrasts that accentuate the brutality of the scene. Notice the diagonal thrust of the figures, converging towards a central point of violence. How does this arrangement contribute to the overall emotional impact? Editor: It certainly adds to the sense of unease, and the lack of clarity contributes to the violent atmosphere, but what are your thoughts on how the technique adds to that feeling of immediacy? Curator: Indeed, the etched lines, thick and frenzied, capture the raw energy of the moment. The figures are rendered with a deliberate lack of refinement, amplifying the sense of dehumanization. Is the composition balanced, in your estimation? Editor: I think that there is very little to alleviate the eye; everything draws the eye into the darkness of the subject, in contrast with any areas of brightness in the composition. Curator: Precisely. Goya masterfully employs compositional asymmetry to underscore the moral imbalance inherent in acts of violence. Now, let's consider how Goya's manipulation of form serves to provoke a visceral response in the viewer. Editor: It seems Goya’s manipulation of the formal elements, not just the historical narrative, contributes profoundly to its enduring power and message. The technical details really contribute to the feeling I get. Curator: Exactly. Focusing on those qualities, it highlights the importance of a detailed, technical understanding.