Nanny's Boy 18th-19th century

Curator: Here we have Francisco Goya's "Nanny's Boy," an intriguing piece in the collection at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It has an immediate unsettling effect; the etching's dark tones and distorted figure evoke a sense of unease. Curator: Indeed. Note the use of aquatint—how it creates those subtle gradations of tone, which amplify the dramatic, almost dreamlike quality. This is key to its emotional impact. Editor: Beyond the formal artistry, I wonder about the printmaking process. What kind of labor went into the creation of this plate? How many impressions were made, and who consumed them? That informs the work's meaning too. Curator: An astute point. The cyclical movement between the plate and the print, its distribution and reception, are interesting facets to consider. It adds another layer to our understanding of Goya's intent. Editor: It is compelling to ponder on the relationship between production and interpretation. Curator: A complex piece, even in its monochromatic simplicity.