Children Playing Soldiers
- Original dimensions
- 94 x 146 cm
Scene depicted
The painting depicts a joyful group of children, armed with sticks, playing war in a lively setting. Through this heart of battle, Goya not only crosses the barriers of children's play but also questions the notions of innocence in the face of the tumultuous realities of their time. Every detail of the scene tells a universal story, that of the child’s imagination.
Historical context
Œuvre : Children Playing Soldiers |BRK| Artiste : Francisco de Goya |BRK| Année : 1778 |BRK| Musée : Prado Museum |BRK| Dimensions : 94 x 146 cm |BRK|
Place in the artist's career
This painting represents a crucial step in Goya's career, the one where his style begins to be boldly defined. In this regard, it can be compared to two other significant works: The Clothed Maja and The Disasters of War , showing the evolution of his gaze towards society and its flaws.
Anecdote
“Childhood is the pure reflection of the soul, a mirror of our aspirations of innocence.” It was while strolling through the sunny streets of Madrid on a spring morning that Goya was inspired by the wonder of children playing soldiers, a poignant memory forever etched in his mind.