Bobalicon (Simpleton)

Bobalicon (Simpleton) is a compelling print created by Francisco Goya in 1816, a work firmly situated within the late phase of his artistic output during the period of 1801 to 1825. This complex Spanish work utilizes a combination of etching, burnished aquatint, and burin, potentially supplemented by drypoint, showcasing Goya's relentless technical experimentation with graphic media.

The piece belongs to Goya’s extensive oeuvre of prints that dissect the flaws and follies of humanity. The term Bobalicon translates roughly as "simpleton" or "fool," and the composition likely functioned as a satirical character study or capricho depicting a specific archetype of foolishness prevalent in early 19th-century Spanish society. While the exact intent of the image remains subject to scholarly interpretation, its blunt characterization and directness align with Goya's critical examination of socio-political corruption and moral weakness common throughout his career.

The technical complexities, including the use of burnished aquatint, allowed Goya to achieve rich, dramatic tonal variation, lending the figure a sense of weight and psychological depth characteristic of his later style. The version held by the National Gallery of Art is significant because it is a trial proof, printed posthumously circa 1854-1863, decades after the artist’s death in 1828. Such posthumous prints confirm the enduring interest in the master’s graphic designs and provide valuable insights into the preservation and subsequent printing history of his plates. As a celebrated example of Spanish graphic art from the transitional 19th century, this print is a pivotal piece within the National Gallery of Art collection, often featured in public domain resources due to its age and stature.