Goya y Lucientes, Francisco de – Al aquelarre, o Asmodea Part 2 Prado Museum

The composition presents a nocturnal scene dominated by a large, looming rock formation that occupies much of the background. A figure, seemingly suspended in mid-air, is positioned prominently on the left side of the canvas. This individual, draped in a vibrant red cloak and wearing what appears to be traditional attire, gestures outwards with an extended arm, directing attention towards the gathering below.
Below this airborne figure, a multitude of people are assembled at the base of the rock. They appear engaged in some form of ritualistic activity; many are seated or kneeling, while others seem to be dancing or participating in a communal celebration. The figures are rendered with a degree of distortion and caricature, contributing to an unsettling atmosphere. A sense of chaos and frenzy pervades the scene, amplified by the indistinctness of their features and the lack of clear narrative focus.
The color palette is muted, primarily consisting of earthy tones – browns, grays, and ochres – which contribute to a somber and oppressive mood. The limited use of brighter colors, particularly the red cloak on the central figure, serves to draw the eye and heighten the sense of drama. Light sources are ambiguous; there’s no clear illumination, adding to the dreamlike or hallucinatory quality of the scene.
The painting seems to explore themes of superstition, societal hypocrisy, and perhaps even a critique of religious dogma. The depiction of the gathering suggests a clandestine meeting, possibly linked to witchcraft or pagan practices – activities often suppressed by dominant institutions. The figure in the air could be interpreted as an observer, a participant, or even a manipulator orchestrating the events below. His gesture implies agency and control over the scene, while his elevated position reinforces a sense of detachment and superiority.
The large rock formation acts as both a physical barrier and a symbolic representation of something ancient, immutable, and potentially dangerous. It could signify the enduring power of folklore and irrational beliefs, or perhaps represent the weight of tradition that constrains individual freedom. The overall effect is one of unease and ambiguity, inviting viewers to question the nature of reality and the motivations of those involved in this strange nocturnal gathering.