This first edition set of Goya's series of 33 prints on the subject of bullfighting deals with the origin and history of bullfighting in Spain, culminating with exploits of bullfighters famous during Goya's own lifetime.
Although the sport is now widely regarded as cruel, Goya's images seem to contain little critical or satirical intention. The subjects of the thirty-three prints range from virtuoso performances, such as bullfighters who faced charging bulls with their feet manacled, to disasters, such as the 1801 fight during which a bull escaped from the ring and ran amok amongst the crowd, killing the Mayor of Torregon.
Provenance
Tomas Harris Collection.