Aguarda que te unten. 1796 - 1797

Curator: "Aguarda que te unten," which roughly translates to "Wait till they rub you down," is one of the intriguing etchings created by Francisco de Goya around 1797. It's part of his series known as "Los Caprichos." Editor: It's unsettling, isn’t it? The stark contrast, the almost grotesque figures…it immediately evokes a feeling of dread, or perhaps a premonition of something unpleasant about to unfold. The linear quality adds to that unease. Curator: Yes, the grotesque nature is intentional. Goya used caricature to critique the superstitions and ignorance prevalent in Spanish society at the time. The figure being rubbed down is a witch or demon, part of the darker folklore. Editor: Note how the etching technique, particularly the use of aquatint, gives a certain tonal depth to the figures against the negative space, isolating the actions of each character from their world and making them almost caricatures themselves. It really focuses your eye on the grim proceedings. Curator: Exactly. That goat hovering overhead is heavily symbolic. In many cultures, the goat is associated with the devil, witchcraft, or general untamed aspects of the human psyche, contributing to this potent atmosphere. Editor: The formal construction amplifies the emotional quality. The arrangement of the figures creates a triangular structure with that wild, dark space beyond—which feels like more than just simple aesthetic balancing; there is a certain asymmetry contributing to a discomfort. Curator: It's also thought to satirize corrupt clergy and social elites, implying they are involved in nefarious or even occult activities, thus questioning their moral authority. Editor: Absolutely. And it’s interesting how Goya's use of etching almost abstracts forms within the whole composition, allowing viewers to interpret the imagery subjectively depending on cultural perspective. That freedom of subjective visual interpretations really gives this print its timeless value! Curator: It’s quite stunning how Goya blended social critique, superstition, and symbolism. A rather powerful and thought-provoking reflection on societal frailties. Editor: Indeed! His clever composition, especially with those subtle variations in texture created with varied etching depths, keeps this haunting little world permanently vivid.