Reference number
P00780
Author
Goya y Lucientes, Francisco de
Title
The Pottery Vendor
Chronology
1779
Technique
Óleo
Support
Lienzo
Measures
259 cm x 220 cm
School
Española
Theme
Paisaje
On display
Yes
Procedence
Real Patrimonio, 1870

Goya masterfully captures a simple moment of everyday life in Madrid, one of the most beautiful and elaborate scenes he ever made. In a stall selling dishes from Valencia, the salesman shows his wares to a couple of ladies accompanied by an elderly woman. Behind them, two gentlemen have their backs turned, watching the departure of a carriage whose lady passenger looks back at the viewer.

The tranquil depiction of the dishes contrasts with the movement of the carriage, which will very soon disappear from the scene. Goya takes advantage of the dynamism of this diagonal composition marked by the position of the figures, from the salesman to the carriage driver.

Like paintings number 779 through 784, this cartoon was the model for a tapestry intended to hang in the bedroom of the Prince and Princess of Asturias at the El Pardo Palace.

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