This is a drawing of a bull in a bullfighting arena. The scene captures several figures engaging with a bull within a confined space, reminiscent of an arena. The drawing shows meticulous detailing, with an emphasis on texture and line work. The figures are holding various props that could be interpreted as tools or weapons related to the act of bullfighting. The background reveals a defined wall separating the arena from the viewing stands, emphasizing the venue's layout and adding depth to the overall composition. The drawing uses a monochrome palette, which enhances the dramatic intensity of the scene through the careful play of light and shadow.
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This is a drawing of a bull in a bullfighting arena. The scene captures several figures engaging with a bull within a confined space, reminiscent of an arena. The drawing shows meticulous detailing, with an emphasis on texture and line work. The figures are holding various props that could be interpreted as tools or weapons related to the act of bullfighting. The background reveals a defined wall separating the arena from the viewing stands, emphasizing the venue's layout and adding depth to the overall composition. The drawing uses a monochrome palette, which enhances the dramatic intensity of the scene through the careful play of light and shadow.

National Gallery of Art · Print

Banderillas de fuego (Banderillas with Firecrackers)

Francisco Goya

Date
in or before 1816
Medium
etching, burnished aquatint, lavis, drypoint and burin [first edition impression]
Classification
Print
Accession number
1943.3.1650
Credit line
Rosenwald Collection
Time span
1801 to 1825
Department
CG-E

Portfolio and series

Series
Tauromaquia: pl.31 [Harris 204-36]

Subjects and terms

  • Cow
  • Spanish
  • Horse
  • Figures

NGA object ID 4798. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.