Disparate ridiculo (Ridiculous Folly)

Disparate ridiculo (Ridiculous Folly) by Francisco Goya is a complex print created during the turbulent years of the early 19th century. Conceived around 1816, this impression is a rare trial proof, executed using Goya’s sophisticated combination of etching, aquatint, and drypoint techniques. This specific example was printed posthumously between 1854 and 1863, decades after the artist’s death, yet it retains the dark atmospheric intensity achieved through his masterful handling of the printing plate. The dramatic contrasts and heavy use of aquatint are hallmarks of the series, demonstrating the technical dedication Goya applied to the print medium late in his career.

The work belongs to the famed series known as Los Disparates or Proverbios, representing Goya’s most enigmatic and psychologically penetrating studies. Created during the period of 1801 to 1825, following the devastating Peninsular War and subsequent political repression under Ferdinand VII, these images move away from direct social commentary toward allegorical satire. In Disparate ridiculo, Goya explores themes of irrationality, social absurdity, and fear. The figures are often depicted engaging in illogical or unsettling actions, reflecting the profound instability and anxiety pervading Spanish society at the time. The ambiguity of the composition compels the viewer to confront the hidden psychological truths beneath the surface of the illustrated folly.

This Spanish print exemplifies Goya’s radical departure from classical artistic conventions, cementing his status as a critical figure transitioning into modern art. His unique vision and technical mastery of the etching process continue to be studied globally, influencing countless successors. The print currently resides in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. While the original plates are preserved, the legacy of these powerful prints is perpetuated, with high-resolution reproductions of this work and other great Goya etchings now frequently made available through public domain initiatives for academic study and appreciation.