Artwork

The Actor Isidoro Máiquez

The Actor Isidoro Máiquez, by Francisco de Goya, oil, 1807
The Actor Isidoro Máiquez, by Francisco de Goya, oil, 1807

The Actor Isidoro Máiquez is an oil painting by Francisco de Goya. It dates from 1807 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.

About this work

Overview

The Actor Isidoro Máiquez is an oil portrait painted by Francisco Goya in 1807, featuring the renowned Spanish actor Isidoro Máiquez against a somber, unadorned backdrop.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait captures Máiquez, a prominent figure in Spanish theater, with a calm yet serious demeanor, reflecting his esteemed position in the cultural landscape of the time.

Technique & Style

Goya employed loose brushstrokes, particularly evident in Máiquez's coat and hair, and utilized chiaroscuro, with side lighting that casts deep shadows, adding depth to the subject's face.

History & Provenance

Created during a period of significant historical change, the painting is now part of the Museo del Prado's collection, highlighting Goya's engagement with the evolving societal and artistic norms of his era.

Context

As a work from the late 18th to early 19th centuries, it situates Goya at the forefront of Spanish art, intersecting with the theatrical and political upheavals of the time, though the painting's focus remains intimately on its subject.

Legacy

While the painting's broader impact is intertwined with Goya's overall contribution to art history, its specific legacy lies in its nuanced portrayal of a cultural icon, showcasing Goya's ability to convey depth through subtle expression and innovative lighting techniques.

Portrait of Isidoro Maiquez
Portrait of Isidoro Maiquez, 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.

Museo del Prado

Museum

Museo del Prado

Continue through works from the same source collection.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Museo del Prado open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Actor Isidoro Máiquez?

The Actor Isidoro Máiquez was painted by Francisco de Goya in 1807.

Where can I see The Actor Isidoro Máiquez?

The Actor Isidoro Máiquez is held by Museo del Prado.

Can I buy a print of The Actor Isidoro Máiquez?

Museum-quality prints of The Actor Isidoro Máiquez are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.