The Consequences, plate 72 from The Disasters of War Possibly 1815 - 1863

Francisco de Goya made this intaglio, plate 72 from *The Disasters of War*, without a specified date. It's a stark reflection on the dark side of humanity. Goya lived through tumultuous times in Spain, including the Peninsular War. In this scene, we witness the aftermath of violence, a fallen figure lying prone, surrounded by ominous bats, which have long been symbols of ignorance. The bats feel like a metaphor for the shadowy aspects of human nature and the broader implications of unchecked power. The print asks us to bear witness to the suffering that war inflicts on individuals and societies. The consequences, as Goya shows us, extend beyond the battlefield, leaving lasting scars on the human psyche. This image is a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy and a call to confront the uncomfortable truths about human nature. It invites us to reflect on our own roles in perpetuating or preventing violence.