It is a Hard Step! 18th-19th century

Curator: This is Francisco Goya’s print, "It is a Hard Step!", held here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: What a chaotic composition! The figures tumbling from the ladder create a real sense of imbalance and precariousness. Curator: It’s believed that Goya intended this image to represent the corruption and incompetence of the Spanish aristocracy. Editor: The ladder is fascinating; it creates strong diagonal lines, almost bisecting the composition. I wonder if it symbolizes social mobility or perhaps, its failure? Curator: Indeed. Goya frequently used his art to critique the social and political issues of his time, and this is a powerful example. Editor: Absolutely, the stark contrast between light and shadow only amplifies the feeling of turmoil and unease. It leaves quite an impression.