The Threshing Floor 1786 - 1787

Francisco Goya painted 'The Threshing Floor' to hang on the walls of the royal palace in late 18th century Spain. The painting is composed of two groups: in the foreground, dressed in finer clothes are likely members of the aristocracy, while in the background workers perform agricultural tasks. A court painter, Goya straddled the worlds of nobility and common life; his work provides a unique perspective into the attitudes of each group, and here perhaps some tensions between them. The painting has been described as portraying an idyllic scene of rural life, but the inclusion of both social classes suggests a more nuanced commentary on the social structures of the time. Goya's art often challenged existing social norms and power structures, and his critical view of Spanish society is well documented. To fully appreciate Goya's work, we might consult historical sources such as letters, newspapers, and court documents. Understanding the artist's social and institutional context reveals a deeper, more relevant meaning.