Portrait of Don Juan Antonio Cuervo

"Portrait of Don Juan Antonio Cuervo", painted in 1819, offers a glimpse into the life of a prominent figure of the time. This impressive portrait, housed right here in the Cleveland Museum of Art, was created by the renowned Spanish artist Francisco de Goya. Measuring 1.2 meters high and 0.87 meters wide, the painting commands attention. nn Notice how Goya captures Don Juan Antonio Cuervo seated in a stately pose, his body slightly turned to the right while his gaze meets ours directly. The artist's use of light and shadow immediately draws our eyes to Don Juan's face and hands, highlighting his status and profession. He is dressed in a sophisticated black jacket, richly embellished with gold embroidery, and a crisp white cravat. In his hands, he holds tools of his trade – a drawing compass and a large architectural plan, rendered in detailed shades of gray. These elements provide us with subtle clues about Don Juan's life and work. Goya's masterful use of light and shadow creates a dramatic effect, adding depth and intrigue to this captivating portrait.