A bullfighter plunges the rapier by grabbing the bull by a horn (Bullfighting L) (preparatory drawing)

See How the ancient Spaniards hunted bulls on horseback in the countryside.

Preparatory drawing for the print A bullfighter plunges the rapier by grabbing the bull by a horn (Bullfighting L). This preparatory study is very similar to the later engraving, as it will be transferred to the plate with remarkable fidelity. Goya retained the composition present here, although slight changes were made, such as the removal of a secondary group of figures.

The scene shows the moment in which the bullfighter is thrusting his rapier at the bull while grabbing a piton with his other hand. The bull's gesture is the same as in the later engraving: he seems to be leaping forward, facing the bullfighter. Already in the foreground is the subalterno with a cape who seems to be moving away from the main action. In the background we see a figure with a hat and cape, with his back turned, with another figure and a dead horse to one side. Another secondary group is to the left of the previous one. It will be suppressed in the print to lighten the composition and make it easier to read. In the background are the barrier with some of the figures behind it, and the bullring with the audience, although it is very sketchy, so it does not give the impression of a mass.

The light in the preparatory study is still different from that in the later engraving, which is more intense and extensive than in the present one.

The present drawing is affixed to a second laid paper belonging to a French army record book in Spain.