The Duchess of Alba 1797

Francisco de Goya painted the Duchess of Alba, in oil on canvas, at an unknown date. Here, we see the Duchess dressed in the traditional 'maja' attire, a style associated with the lower classes of Spain. This was a radical statement for a woman of her position, blurring the lines between aristocracy and the common people. Painted at a time of great social and political upheaval in Spain, it is fascinating to note that Goya was working as a court painter even as he was creating art that subtly questioned the established order. Notice how the Duchess is pointing at the ground, where it is speculated the words 'Sólo Goya' ('Only Goya') were written. This may have been a testament to their close relationship or Goya's way of asserting his importance within the Spanish court. Art historians rely on many sources to understand the context in which art is made. Letters, diaries, and records of the Royal court are invaluable resources for understanding this fascinating painting.