The Great He-Goat or Witches Sabbath, ca 1821-23, Detal Francisco Jose De Goya y Lucientes (1746-1828)

The fragment presents a densely packed group of figures rendered in a dark, earthy palette dominated by browns, ochres, and muted greens. The composition is claustrophobic; individuals are pressed closely together, their faces overlapping and obscuring one another. Theres an immediate sense of unease generated by the distorted features and unsettling gazes directed outward.
The artist employed a loose, expressive brushstroke that contributes to the overall feeling of chaos and frenzy. Details are sacrificed for the sake of conveying emotional intensity. The lighting is uneven, with areas of deep shadow contrasting sharply with patches of illumination that highlight certain facial features – particularly the eyes – creating an almost feverish effect.
Several figures display exaggerated expressions: some appear to be grimacing or contorted in pain, while others seem to stare with a mixture of malice and derision. The faces are not idealized; they possess a grotesque quality, suggesting age, illness, or perhaps something more sinister. The clothing appears rudimentary – simple garments draped loosely over the bodies, further emphasizing their unrefined nature.
A central figure, positioned slightly forward, is partially obscured but seems to be clutching an object – possibly a pipe or some other ritualistic item – held close to the body. This individual’s face is particularly striking due to its exaggerated features and intense gaze. The surrounding figures seem to lean in towards this person, suggesting a focal point for their collective attention or perhaps a leader within the group.
Subtextually, the work evokes themes of transgression and societal marginalization. The distorted faces and unsettling expressions suggest individuals operating outside of conventional norms, possibly engaged in clandestine activities. The darkness and oppressive atmosphere imply secrecy and hidden agendas. It is possible to interpret this as a depiction of marginalized groups – the poor, the sick, or those accused of heresy – depicted not with sympathy but through a lens of fear and suspicion. The overall effect is one of psychological disturbance, hinting at a world governed by irrationality and dark impulses.