Artwork

Disparate general (General Folly)

Disparate general (General Folly), by Francisco de Goya, ink, 1816
Disparate general (General Folly), by Francisco de Goya, ink, 1816

Disparate general (General Folly) is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Francisco de Goya. It dates from 1816 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Disparate general (General Folly) is an etching and burnished aquatint created by Francisco Goya in 1816, first printed posthumously between 1854 and 1863. This print exemplifies Goya's satirical approach to societal critique.

Subject & Meaning

The composition centers on a man in a dark coat and hat, engulfed by a densely packed, chaotic crowd. Figures overlap in various poses, conveying confusion and disorder. The scene reflects Goya's critical perspective on human folly and societal ills.

Technique & Style

Goya employed bold lines and expressive shading to imbue the scene with dynamic energy and movement. The predominantly dark background, punctuated by faint light, enhances the sense of turmoil.

History & Provenance

Originally created in 1816, this etching was printed posthumously circa 1854-1863. It forms part of Goya's satirical print series, characteristic of his late work.

Context

As a leading late 18th- to early 19th-century Spanish artist, Goya's works, including this print, often addressed the social and political tensions of his era, offering scathing commentary through satire.

The Proverbs:  General Folly
The Proverbs: General Folly, 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: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Disparate general (General Folly)?

Disparate general (General Folly) was painted by Francisco de Goya in 1816.

Where can I see Disparate general (General Folly)?

Disparate general (General Folly) is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Disparate general (General Folly)?

Disparate general (General Folly) is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Disparate general (General Folly)?

Museum-quality prints of Disparate general (General Folly) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.