A Descent into Dreamlike Flight: Goya’s “There it goes”

Francisco de Goya's "There it goes," etched in 1799, is not merely a depiction of two figures suspended in the air; it’s a haunting meditation on desire, escape, and perhaps, the inevitable loss that shadows even the most fervent pursuits. This monochrome masterpiece, measuring 21 x 15 cm, offers a profound glimpse into the artist's Romantic sensibility – a period defined by intense emotion, fascination with the supernatural, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths about humanity. The work’s immediate impact lies in its dramatic composition: two figures, a man and woman, are propelled upwards against a simplified landscape, creating an undeniable sense of upward motion that draws the viewer into their enigmatic dance.

The Language of Line: Technique and Style

• Etching Mastery: Executed with meticulous precision, “There it goes” is a testament to Goya’s unparalleled skill in etching. The process began with drawing an image onto a copper plate using acid-resistant lines – a technique known as *matrix*. This plate was then subjected to carefully controlled corrosion with acid, creating the recessed lines that would form the artwork's foundation.
• Monochromatic Drama: Goya’s masterful use of black ink on white paper generates a powerful visual effect. The artist skillfully manipulated hatching and cross-hatching – layering parallel lines to create varying degrees of darkness – to build up tonal values, suggesting depth and form with remarkable subtlety.
• Romantic Expressionism: The expressive lines themselves are the defining characteristic of Goya’s style during this period. They aren't simply delineating shapes; they are conveying emotion, movement, and a sense of unease that is deeply rooted in the Romantic aesthetic.

Symbolic Flight and Fragmented Reality

The subject matter of “There it goes” invites multiple interpretations. The figures’ flight can be read as an allegory for escape – a yearning to transcend earthly constraints, perhaps fueled by artistic inspiration represented by the flute held by the man. Yet, there's also a palpable sense of melancholy and detachment. The simplified landscape below, with its suggestion of buildings and water, feels distant and unreal, mirroring the figures’ disengagement from reality. Goya was known for his ability to capture the darker aspects of human experience, and this work is no exception; it hints at a profound sadness underlying the seemingly joyous act of flight.

A Window into Goya's World

Created in 1799, “There it goes” reflects Goya’s evolving artistic vision. Following his early commissions for the Spanish court, he began to explore darker themes and more expressive styles, anticipating the anxieties of the modern age. This etching exemplifies his shift towards a deeply personal and emotionally charged art – one that would profoundly influence generations of artists to come. The work's enduring power lies not just in its technical brilliance but also in its ability to evoke a sense of mystery and contemplation, prompting viewers to confront their own desires, fears, and the fleeting nature of existence.