Flying folly
Technical details
Author:
Francisco de Goya y Lucientes
Title:
Flying folly
Timeline:
1816-1824, published in 1864
Technique:
Aquafortis and aquatint
Description
On a dark night, a pair of lovers ride a creature of fantasy, with the body of a horse, wide outspread eagle-like wings and the head of a bird of prey. Perhaps the scene is of an abduction for love, given that the man, dressed in dark clothes, holds in his arms the body of the woman, who with raised arms seems to want to be released from her enamoured captor. They fly towards an unknown destination. The deep contrasts between light and shade enhance the dramatic effect of the scene.
Location in the museum
You may find this artwork on Floor 2 Goya’s Etchings