The divided arena
Technical details
Author:
Francisco de Goya y Lucientes
Title:
The divided arena
Timeline:
1825
Technique:
Lithographic pencil and scraper
Description
The arena is divided into two semicircles by a barrier. An accumulation in the number of bulls to fight at certain events led to the provisional division of the arena in order to duplicate the number of bullfights on a given day. This custom was continued well into the 20th century. On the right, a matador readies to plunge his sword into the bull; on the left, a banderillero taunts a motionless bull. Bullfighters sitting on the barrier watch one or other spectacle. Both sides of the stands are filled with people, who also clearly crowd around the barrier.
Location in the museum
You may find this artwork on Floor 2 Goya’s Etchings