#36569 Francisco Jose De Goya y Lucientes (1746-1828)

The painting presents a seated male figure in three-quarter view, occupying nearly the entire frame. He is positioned slightly off-center, with his gaze directed towards the viewer. The background is dark and indistinct, drawing immediate attention to the subject.
Here we see a man of apparent authority or status; he wears a formal coat of pale green, layered over an elaborate white shirt with a patterned cravat. The fabric appears finely woven, suggesting wealth and refinement. His hair is receding, light in color, and neatly styled. One arm rests across his lap, while the other is bent at the elbow, hand placed on the hip – a gesture that conveys both composure and a degree of self-assurance.
The artist’s brushwork appears loose and expressive, particularly noticeable in the rendering of the coats fabric where visible strokes create texture and movement. The face itself displays an intriguing complexity. While there is a directness to his gaze, it also carries a hint of melancholy or perhaps even weariness. A subtle furrowing of the brow suggests introspection or concern.
The lighting is dramatic; it illuminates the man’s face and upper torso while leaving much of the background in shadow. This creates a sense of depth and emphasizes the subjects presence. The limited color palette, dominated by greens, whites, and dark tones, contributes to a somber yet dignified atmosphere.
Subtly, there is an element of informality within the formality of the portrait. The relaxed posture and direct gaze challenge the conventional stiffness often associated with official portraits of the era. This might suggest a desire on the part of either the sitter or the artist to portray a more human, less idealized image. The overall effect is one of quiet power tempered by an underlying sense of introspection and perhaps even vulnerability.