Artwork

They Say "Yes" and Give Their Hand to the First Comer, Plate 2

They Say "Yes" and Give Their Hand to the First Comer, Plate 2, by Francisco de Goya, 1799
They Say "Yes" and Give Their Hand to the First Comer, Plate 2, by Francisco de Goya, 1799

They Say "Yes" and Give Their Hand to the First Comer, Plate 2 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.
1922.597

About this work

Overview

They Say "Yes" and Give Their Hand to the First Comer, Plate 2, created circa 1799 by Francisco de Goya, is a print housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art, depicting a pivotal, tense moment in a crowded gathering.

Subject & Meaning

The print centers on a woman in simple attire, surrounded by men in formal, wigs, as one leans in expectantly. Her stiff posture and clasped hands suggest a moment of significant decision-making, potentially alluding to themes of societal pressure or personal agency.

Technique & Style

Goya employs bold lines and pronounced chiaroscuro, emphasizing dramatic shadows to heighten tension, focusing attention on the expressive faces and body language of the crowd, underscoring the scene’s emotional intensity.

History & Provenance

Created in the late 18th century, the work is part of Goya’s oeuvre from this period. It is currently part of The Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection, though specific acquisition details are not provided here.

Context

This print reflects Goya’s interest in critiquing social norms of his time, possibly commenting on the dynamics between gender roles and societal expectations in late 18th-century Spain.

Legacy

As part of Goya’s body of work, it contributes to his legacy as a commentator on social issues, though its individual impact within his broader oeuvre is not distinctly highlighted in available information.

How They Pluck Her!, Plate 21
How They Pluck Her!, Plate 21, Francisco de Goya

Artist & collection

Portrait of Francisco de Goya

Artist

Francisco de Goya

Francisco José de Goya y Lucientes was a Spanish romantic painter and printmaker.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted They Say "Yes" and Give Their Hand to the First Comer, Plate 2?

They Say "Yes" and Give Their Hand to the First Comer, Plate 2 was painted by Francisco de Goya in 1799.

Where can I see They Say "Yes" and Give Their Hand to the First Comer, Plate 2?

They Say "Yes" and Give Their Hand to the First Comer, Plate 2 is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is They Say "Yes" and Give Their Hand to the First Comer, Plate 2?

They Say "Yes" and Give Their Hand to the First Comer, Plate 2 is associated with Romanticism.