Le descañona. (She fleeces him.) (1796-1797)

"Le descañona" or "She fleeces him" from 1796-1797, is a captivating etching by the celebrated Spanish artist Francisco de Goya. This piece is part of his famous series of prints known as "Los Caprichos," which famously critiques the various follies and vices of society during his time.This particular artwork depicts a scene in an intimate setting. A man is shown sitting on a chair, tilted backward as he leans into the lap of a woman who is grooming him. The woman, holding what appears to be tweezers, plucks a hair from his brow, a common beauty practice at the time but one also laden with intimate overtones. The expressions on the faces of the woman and the onlookers, two other women standing behind her, suggest a mixture of amusement and complicity. These bystanders seem to revel in the act or in the outcome of this very personal grooming session.Goya's work here may hint at deception or manipulation, suggesting the title's metaphorical edge of being "fleeced" or deceived. The interactions and the expressions captured speak to the artist’s critical view of personal and societal relationships, marked by an undercurrent of exploitation or deceit.In terms of artistic technique, Goya's mastery in etching and aquatint brings out rich textures and deep contrasts, highlighting the dramatic essence of the scene. The detailed attire and animated expressions further breathe life into the composition, making it both a visual and thematic feast.