José Costa y Bonells (died l870), Called Pepito

Goya (Francisco de Goya y Lucientes)

Created:
Movement:
1815
Romanticism
key Notes:
Child portraiture, somber expression
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Dimensions:
41 3/8 x 33 1/4 in. (105.1 x 84.5 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"José Costa y Bonells (died 1870), Called Pepito" is a portrait by Francisco de Goya, created around 1810. The painting depicts José Costa y Bonells, a notable figure in Goya's social circle. Goya's work during this period reflects his interest in capturing the individuality and character of his subjects. The portrait is characterized by Goya's loose brushwork and expressive use of color, which convey both the personality and the social status of the sitter. The exact circumstances of the commission and the relationship between Goya and Costa y Bonells are not well-documented. The painting is part of the collection at the Museo del Prado in Madrid. Goya's portraits from this era often serve as a commentary on the societal changes occurring in Spain. The work exemplifies Goya's transition from the Rococo style to a more modern approach in portraiture.

Description of the work:

"José Costa y Bonells (died 1870), Called Pepito" is an oil on canvas painting by Francisco de Goya, created around 1810. The composition features a portrait of a young boy, José Costa y Bonells, depicted in a three-quarter view. The subject is dressed in a white shirt with a dark vest, which contrasts with the soft, muted background. Goya employs a loose brushwork technique that enhances the texture of the fabric and the boy's skin. The lighting is soft and natural, illuminating the boy's face and creating a sense of intimacy. The expression on the boy's face is contemplative, capturing a moment of stillness. The color palette is predominantly warm, with earthy tones that contribute to the overall warmth of the portrait. The background is indistinct, allowing the figure to stand out prominently. Goya's mastery of light and shadow is evident in the subtle modeling of the boy's features. The painting exemplifies Goya's ability to convey personality and emotion through portraiture.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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José Costa y Bonells (died l870), Called Pepito