Artifact World Gallery
Get the iOS app

Portrait of Josefa de Castilla Portugal y van Asbrock de Garcini by Francisco Goya

Francisco Goya · 1804-01-01

Francisco Goya's 1804 "Portrait of Josefa de Castilla Portugal y van Asbrock de Garcini" at The Metropolitan Museum of Art presents a dignified yet intimate portrayal.

Look closely at Josefa's direct gaze and the gentle placement of her hands, holding a delicate fan. Goya’s visible impasto, especially in her flowing blonde hair, adds a tactile quality, animating the sitter's otherwise composed demeanor.

This work exemplifies Goya's prolific portraiture from a period when he documented Spain’s elite amidst political turbulence. It was acquired by the museum in the early 20th century.

What do you imagine she was thinking in this moment?

Details

The simple white dress emphasizes her form and softness.
The simple white dress emphasizes her form and softness.
Her hands rest gently, holding a folded fan.
Her hands rest gently, holding a folded fan.
Goya's brushstrokes are visible, giving her hair a tactile quality.
Goya's brushstrokes are visible, giving her hair a tactile quality.
She is rendered with dignity, yet without embellishment.
She is rendered with dignity, yet without embellishment.
Transcript

In 1804, Goya painted Josefa de Castilla Portugal. Her direct gaze draws you into her quiet world. The simple white dress emphasizes her form and softness. Her hands rest gently, holding a folded fan. Goya's brushstrokes are visible, giving her hair a tactile quality. She is rendered with dignity, yet without embellishment.