Bull Stabbed by a Matador (Collection of the Main Maneuvers in Bullfighting) Antonio Carnicero (1748-1814)

The engraving depicts a moment of intense drama within what appears to be a bullring or arena. Here we see a large bull collapsed on the ground, impaled by a sword protruding from its flank. The composition is structured around this central event, with figures arranged in a manner that emphasizes both the brutality and the spectacle of the scene.
A matador, identifiable through his distinctive attire – a cape draped over his arm and a broad-brimmed hat perched on his head – stands close to the fallen bull, gesturing emphatically towards it. His posture suggests a mixture of triumph and perhaps a degree of theatricality intended for an unseen audience. Several other figures are present; two men stand behind the matador, their hands clasped behind their backs, observing the action with expressions that seem to convey a complex blend of concern and detached interest. Their positioning suggests they may be attendants or officials involved in the bullfight. Further back, another figure is visible, seemingly caught mid-motion, perhaps reacting to the unfolding events.
The arena floor itself is rendered with meticulous detail, indicating an attempt at realism within the limitations of the engraving technique. The surrounding walls are suggested by a series of parallel lines, creating a sense of enclosure and emphasizing the confined nature of the spectacle.
Subtexts inherent in this depiction extend beyond a simple portrayal of bullfighting. The vulnerability of the animal, starkly presented through its wounded state, contrasts with the apparent dominance and control exercised by the human figures. This juxtaposition raises questions about power dynamics, tradition, and the relationship between humans and nature. The detached observation of the onlookers hints at a societal acceptance or even enjoyment of violence as entertainment. Furthermore, the formal arrangement of the composition – the deliberate placement of figures and the emphasis on gesture – suggests an awareness of theatricality and performance, implying that this event is not merely about the bull’s demise but also about the presentation of it to others. The engraving seems to be less a straightforward documentation of an event and more a considered commentary on its cultural significance.