Tale-bearers -- Blasts of Wind 18th-19th century

Curator: This is Francisco Goya's "Tale-bearers -- Blasts of Wind," an etching held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Woah, it's like a nightmare caught on paper. That winged figure is both imposing and unsettling, a storm brewing above the figures below. Curator: Goya's aquatint technique here masterfully creates depth and shadow. Notice how the distribution of light draws our eye toward the central figure, and away from the figures on the lower left. Editor: It feels oppressive. That poor soul covering his ears—you can almost hear the cacophony. I imagine Goya's showing us the cruelty of gossip, maybe? Curator: Quite possibly. Goya often used his art to critique the follies of society and the dark side of human nature. Editor: I can see that. It’s a stark reminder of how words can wound, those "blasts of wind" carrying poison. Gives you chills, doesn't it? Curator: Indeed. Goya's work always invites contemplation on the human condition.