Francisco de Goya

Plate 19 from: Tauromaquia. A very good, clear wiped proof impression. The aquatint is finely drawn and the number in the upper right corner is only faintly visible. In the third edition, it is sharp and clear. The aquatint does not yet show the arena floor, but is tentatively used in the left margin and in the bull, in later issues it becomes increasingly clear. With a margin of up to 10 mm around the narrow printing plate edge. The series Tauromaquia is the rarest of the four great aquatint series by Goya. His skill and understanding of the emotions of Spanish bullfighting set it apart from numerous depictions and publications since the 17th century, including Picasso's illustrations for Hillos' Tauromaquia, which were heavily influenced by Goya. To some extent, Goya followed Nicolás Fernández de Moratín's treatise on bullfighting, but his most haunting works are based on his personal memories of the corridas and the feats of the toreros he knew. The complete series was created in just two years; the name ‘La Tauromaquia’ became established in the late 19th century and is not contemporary. – A little box pleat in the lower right margin. Barely visible handling marks at the edges and a few tiny spots, otherwise in very good condition. Very rare.