Portrait of Don Bernardo Iriarte
- Original dimensions
- 86 x 108 cm
- Museum
- Strasbourg Museum of Fine Arts
- Year
- 1797
Scene depicted
In this canvas , Goya depicts Don Bernardo Iriarte, a man with an authoritative face and a distinguished posture. The artist succeeds in capturing not only the appearance but also the essence of his subject, reflecting his social status while testifying to his personality. The careful arrangement of the clothing and the softness of the features highlight Goya's technical skill, allowing the viewer to enter a fleeting intimacy with the character.
Historical context
Created in 1797, this painting is emblematic of the vibrant context of late 18th century Spain. Goya, a major figure of romanticism and a precursor of modernism, captures here the essence of a time when art intertwines with social reflection. Currently housed in the Strasbourg Museum of Fine Arts, this masterpiece of 86 x 108 cm embodies the spirit of an era while offering a fascinating insight into the portraits of the Spanish aristocracy.
Place in the artist's career
This portrait stands at a crossroads in Goya's career, representing a period of artistic maturity. At the height of his talent, he created numerous masterpieces such as “La Maja Vestida” and “La Columna de la Verdad.” This painting demonstrates an evolution in his technique and approach, where human emotion takes precedence over mere representation.
Anecdote
“I paint not only with my hands, but also with my heart,” could have said Francisco de Goya while creating this painting . Inspired on a cool autumn morning, where the golden light mingles with the dancing shadows of a reception room, he managed to capture the depth of Don Bernardo Iriarte's gaze, translating a silent story through this painting .