Mariano Goya

Mariano de Goya (see biographical data in Mariano de Goya) is depicted here for the second time in a magnificent half-length portrait more befitting a young aristocrat than Goya's grandson. He appears to be between seven and nine years old, putting the likely date of the portrait to between 1813 and 1815. He is sitting in a chair, with a blurrily outlined musical manuscript in front of him. Marianito is shown wearing a black jacket that may have been made of velvet, above which a broad collar of white lace, executed in delicate brushstrokes, stands out. He is also wearing a striking black top hat, which frames his lively face, where his alert dark eyes stand out from his delicate white skin. His left hand is held on his hip in a charming formal gesture, whilst his right holds a rolled up piece of paper that he appears to wield like a baton.

Goya's skill in painting children has been showcased on various occasions. This work is one of his most exquisite, reflecting with perfect naturalness the liveliness and tenderness of his beloved grandson.