Who painted That Certainly is Being Able to Read, Plate 29?

That Certainly is Being Able to Read, Plate 29 was painted by Francisco de Goya in 1799.

Where can I see That Certainly is Being Able to Read, Plate 29?

That Certainly is Being Able to Read, Plate 29 is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is That Certainly is Being Able to Read, Plate 29?

That Certainly is Being Able to Read, Plate 29 is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

That Certainly is Being Able to Read, Plate 29

Francisco de Goya , 1799

That Certainly is Being Able to Read, Plate 29 is a print by the Romanticist artist Francisco de Goya. It dates from 1799 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1922.624
Credit line: Dudley P. Allen Fund

About this work

Overview

Francisco de Goya's 'That Certainly is Being Able to Read, Plate 29' is a print created around 1799, now held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts an older man struggling to read, his face and hands illuminated against a dark background. The caption 'Esto sí que es leer?' ('This is what reading is?') suggests irony, highlighting the man's difficulties.

Technique & Style

Goya's use of chiaroscuro emphasizes the man's face and hands, drawing attention to his expression of confusion or frustration. The sketchy style and dark lighting contribute to the overall sense of struggle.

Context

Goya often employed humor to comment on everyday life, using irony to critique societal norms. This print may be seen as a commentary on the challenges faced by the elderly or the less literate.