Gaspar de Guzman, Conde Duque of Olivares 1778

Editor: Here we have Francisco Goya’s etching and drypoint from 1778, "Gaspar de Guzman, Conde Duque of Olivares," now at the Art Institute of Chicago. There's a real commanding presence to the figure, so confidently seated on horseback. How do you read this particular piece? Curator: It's funny you mention 'commanding' because I think Goya, cheeky genius that he was, is being incredibly subversive here. Look closely. That posture, supposedly regal, appears almost… precariously balanced, doesn’t it? This isn’t a heroic portrait in the classical sense; there's a certain satire bubbling beneath the surface. The Conde Duque's influence was waning. Perhaps Goya is subtly hinting at that instability? Editor: That's a fascinating take! I initially just saw a straightforward depiction of power, but your perspective definitely changes the reading. The delicacy of the etching now seems like it’s adding to that fragility. Curator: Exactly! Think of it as a visual whisper campaign. He uses the very tools meant to immortalize and glorify to maybe, just maybe, poke a little fun at those in charge. What kind of guts does that take? The background itself dissolves almost completely away... Perhaps, intentionally obscuring a power that maybe wasn't there anymore. What do you think? Is that plausible? Editor: Absolutely. That subtle touch—that whisper—is much more powerful than an outright criticism. And by inviting us to look closely, Goya lets us in on the secret. Thanks, I will see this piece so differently from now on! Curator: Wonderful. It’s all about letting your intuition and interpretation ride alongside what we think we *know*. Goya, more than most, would appreciate the collaboration!