Madrid is a city of art, history, and culture. It is home to some of the world’s most renowned museums, galleries, and exhibitions.
One such artist whose work is celebrated in Madrid is Francisco de Goya. But where can you see Goya’s work in Madrid? Let’s explore.
The Prado Museum
The Prado Museum is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts visiting Madrid. The museum houses an incredible collection of Spanish artwork from the 12th to the 19th centuries, including several masterpieces by Francisco de Goya.
Among Goya’s works at the Prado Museum are his famous ‘Black Paintings.’ These 14 paintings were originally painted on the walls of Goya’s house and were later moved to canvas. The ‘Black Paintings’ depict dark and eerie scenes that reflect Goya’s mental state during his later years.
Some of Goya’s notable works at the Prado Museum include:
- La Maja Desnuda (The Naked Maja): This painting depicts a reclining nude woman covering her modesty with a sheet.
- La Maja Vestida (The Clothed Maja): This painting shows the same woman from ‘La Maja Desnuda’ but fully clothed.
- The Third of May 1808: This painting depicts the execution of Spanish citizens by French soldiers during the Peninsular War.
- The Family of Charles IV: This portrait depicts King Charles IV of Spain and his family.
The Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando
The Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando is another great place to see Goya’s artwork in Madrid. The academy has an extensive collection of Spanish art from the 15th century to the present day, including several works by Goya.
One of the most famous works by Goya at the Royal Academy is ‘La Cometa’ (The Kite). This painting depicts two children flying a kite in a park and is considered one of Goya’s most charming and lighthearted works.
Other notable works by Goya at the Royal Academy include:
- The Burial of the Sardine: This painting depicts a carnival tradition where a sardine is ‘buried’ to mark the end of Carnival season.
- The Countess de Chinchón: This portrait depicts the wife of the Viceroy of Peru.
- The Duchess of Alba: This portrait depicts María del Pilar Teresa Cayetana de Silva Álvarez de Toledo, one of Goya’s most famous models and muses.
The Lazaro Galdiano Museum
The Lazaro Galdiano Museum is a lesser-known museum in Madrid that is home to an impressive collection of Spanish art, including many works by Francisco de Goya. The museum was founded by José Lázaro Galdiano, a wealthy art collector who amassed an extensive collection during his lifetime.
One of the most notable works by Goya at this museum is ‘El Aquelarre’ (The Witches’ Sabbath). This painting depicts a group of witches dancing around a fire and is considered one of Goya’s most macabre works.
Other notable works by Goya at The Lazaro Galdiano Museum include:
- Los Caprichos: This series of 80 prints satirizes Spanish society and is considered one of Goya’s most important works.
- La Tauromaquia: This series of 33 prints depicts bullfighting scenes.
- El Pelele: This painting depicts a group of women playing with a scarecrow-like figure.
In Conclusion
If you’re a fan of Francisco de Goya, Madrid is the perfect destination for you. The Prado Museum, the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando, and The Lazaro Galdiano Museum are just a few places where you can see some of Goya’s most famous works. So why not plan a trip to Madrid and immerse yourself in the world of Francisco de Goya?