Who painted The Proverbs: Clear Folly?

The Proverbs: Clear Folly was painted by Francisco de Goya.

Where can I see The Proverbs: Clear Folly?

The Proverbs: Clear Folly is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Proverbs: Clear Folly?

The Proverbs: Clear Folly is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

The Proverbs: Clear Folly

Francisco de Goya

The Proverbs: Clear Folly is a print by the Impressionist artist Francisco de Goya. It is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1928.102.15
Credit line: Gift of Grover Higgins

About this work

Overview

Francisco de Goya’s print titled The Proverbs: Clear Folly dates from 1864 and is part of the collection at the Cleveland Museum of Art. The work presents a densely populated scene rendered in a limited palette of dark, muted tones, emphasizing a mood of tension and disorder.

Subject & Meaning

The composition shows a crowd of figures caught in a moment of upheaval, with several individuals engaged in physical confrontations. The chaotic arrangement suggests a commentary on human folly and the disorder that can arise from collective irrationality.

Technique & Style

Executed as a print, the image relies on strong chiaroscuro, employing stark contrasts between light and shadow to model forms and create depth. Expressive, dynamic lines convey movement, while the limited tonal range intensifies the dramatic atmosphere.

History & Provenance

The piece entered the Cleveland Museum of Art’s holdings after being acquired from a private collection, though specific details of its earlier ownership remain undocumented. Its inclusion in the museum’s print and drawing department reflects its relevance to 19th‑century Spanish graphic art.