Francisco José de Goya y Lucientes was born on 30 March 1746 in Fuendetodos, Spain, and died on 16 April 1828 in Bordeaux, France. He was a major Spanish painter and engraver of the 18th and 19th centuries. He is often considered the last of the Old Masters and the first of the Moderns. 

Goya began his artistic career at the age of 14, studying painting in Zaragoza. He quickly gained a reputation as a talented artist and attracted the attention of the Spanish court. In 1775, he became painter to the chamber of King Charles III, which marked the beginning of his career at court.

Goya's work is varied, covering genres from portraiture to genre painting to engraving. His series of portraits of the royal family, notably "Charles IV of Spain and His Family", illustrate his ability to capture the psychology of the characters. He also created masterpieces such as "The Third of May 1808", a touching representation of the execution of Spanish resistance fighters during the Napoleonic occupation.

A significant part of Goya's work is devoted to denouncing the horrors of war. His series of engravings entitled "Disasters of War" brutally depicts the human and social consequences of armed conflict.

Goya lived a tumultuous life, marked by major historical events such as the Spanish War of Independence and political instability. His critical vision and ability to capture the human essence made him one of the most influential artists of his time.

With his innovative technique and ability to transcend the artistic styles of his time, Francisco Goya left a rich artistic legacy that continues to inspire and fascinate future generations.