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Francisco Goya

Biography

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.

Questions

Question

1. When was Francisco Goya born?

Answers

a) 16th April 1828

b) 30th March 1746

c) 3rd May 1808

Question

2. Which title is associated with a series of engravings by Goya denouncing the horrors of war?

Answers

a) The Family of Charles IV

b) The Third of May 1808 

c) Disasters of War

Question

3. When did Goya start studying painting?

Answers

a) 30 years old

b) 14 years old

c) 20 years old

Question

4. Which series of portraits illustrates Goya's ability to capture the psychology of his subjects?

Answers

a) La Maja Desnuda

b) The Third of May 1808

c) Charles IV of Spain and His Family

Question

5. What historical event strongly influenced Goya's work?

Answers

a) The Renaissance

b) Spanish War of Independence

c) The French Revolution

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