Bravissimo 1799

Francisco de Goya created this etching titled "Bravissimo" in the late 18th or early 19th century. It depicts a scene populated with animal figures, most notably a monkey playing the guitar before an ass in a posture of royal authority being applauded by two figures. The motif of the monkey musician, a figure found in art since antiquity, historically serves as a symbol of base desires or the imitation of art without true understanding. This resonates with the ass, a traditional symbol for ignorance or stubbornness, now elevated to a position of power and celebrated by sycophants. The image evokes the ancient fable of the "The Ass in the Lion's Skin," reminding us that outward appearances often conceal one's true nature. Goya uses the power of visual symbols to explore themes of ignorance, false authority, and the corrupting influence of flattery. These symbolic elements resonate deeply, engaging viewers on a visceral level and reminding us of the cyclical recurrence of human folly throughout history.