Retrato de Lola Jiménez - Public domain scenic painting

Francisco Goya (1746-1828) was a Spanish painter and printmaker who is considered one of the most important artists of the Romantic period. He is known for his portraits, religious paintings and depictions of historical events and social issues. Born in Fuendetodos, Spain, Goya began his artistic career as an apprentice to a local artist. He later moved to Madrid where he became court painter to King Charles III and later to King Charles IV. During his time in Madrid, Goya developed a unique style that combined realism with a bold use of colour and expressive brushstrokes. In the 1790s, Goya suffered a serious illness that left him deaf and changed the course of his art. He began to create more personal works that reflected his disillusionment with the political and social climate of Spain. These works, such as The Third of May 1808 and The Disasters of War, are powerful indictments of war and violence. Goya's later works, such as the Black Paintings, are even darker and more disturbing, reflecting his growing sense of isolation and despair. Despite this, Goya continued to create art until his death in 1828. Today, Goya is considered one of the greatest painters in Spanish history, and his work continues to influence artists around the world.