Quien lo creyera! 1796 - 1797

This is 'Quien lo creyera!' by Francisco de Goya, an etching rendered in shades of sepia. Immediately, the stark contrast between light and shadow commands our attention, casting the scene in a dramatic, almost theatrical light. The composition revolves around the distorted figures locked in what appears to be a struggle. Goya employs a dynamic arrangement, destabilizing any sense of equilibrium. We are drawn into the chaotic scene through Goya’s expressive lines, which lend a sense of urgency and unease. The rough texture adds to the raw emotional impact. What are we to make of this? The formal elements here—the lack of clarity, the ambiguous space, the brutal lines—may reflect Goya's broader commentary on the irrationality and violence inherent in society. This is not merely an aesthetic statement, but a profound engagement with the darker aspects of the human condition.