Ignacio Garcini y Queralt (1752–1825), Brigadier of Engineers

Goya (Francisco de Goya y Lucientes)

Created:
Movement:
1804
Romanticism
key Notes:
Military Portrait, Goya's Realism
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Dimensions:
41 x 32 3/4 in. (104.1 x 83.2 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Ignacio Garcini y Queralt (1752–1825), Brigadier of Engineers" is a portrait painted by Francisco de Goya in 1804. The work depicts Ignacio Garcini, a prominent military engineer and brigadier in the Spanish army. Goya was known for his ability to capture the psychological depth of his subjects, and this portrait exemplifies his skill in rendering character and authority. The painting is characterized by Goya's use of light and shadow, which enhances the three-dimensionality of Garcini's figure. It is part of a series of portraits commissioned by the Spanish government to honor military figures. The exact circumstances of the commission are not well-documented. The painting is currently housed in the Museo del Prado in Madrid, Spain. Goya's portrayal of Garcini reflects the artist's transition from neoclassical influences to a more personal and expressive style.

Description of the work:

"Ignacio Garcini y Queralt (1752–1825), Brigadier of Engineers" is an oil on canvas painting by Francisco de Goya, created in 1804. The portrait depicts Garcini in a formal military uniform, characterized by its intricate detailing and rich textures. Goya employs a muted color palette, primarily featuring deep blues and blacks, which contrasts with the lighter tones of Garcini's face and hands. The subject is positioned against a dark background, enhancing the focus on his figure. Goya's brushwork is fluid, capturing the nuances of light and shadow on Garcini's features. The composition is balanced, with Garcini's gaze directed slightly off-center, suggesting a sense of introspection. The painting exemplifies Goya's skill in portraying the psychological depth of his subjects while adhering to the conventions of portraiture in the early 19th century.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Ignacio Garcini y Queralt (1752–1825), Brigadier of Engineers