El de la rollona. (Nanny’s boy.) (1796-1797)

Francisco de Goya’s captivating etching, "El de la rollona" (Nanny’s boy), created between 1796 and 1797, offers a poignant glimpse into the social dynamics and personal intimacies of its era. This work is part of Goya’s "Los Caprichos," a series of prints that critique various aspects of Spanish society.In this striking piece, the scene shows an elderly woman appearing distressed and overwhelmed. She holds a distraught expression as she raises a handkerchief to her tearful eyes. Behind her, a dark figure, a child, is seen from the back, his identity and emotions obscured from view. The predominance of shadow in the background and on the figures themselves evokes a sense of weight and somberness, suggesting a narrative replete with struggles and emotional depth.The title "El de la rollona" might refer to a colloquial term related to the upbringing or care of children, hinting that this woman is a caregiver, perhaps worn by the demands of her charge. The subtitles and inherent symbolism in the artwork encourage the viewer to ponder the socio-economic contrasts of the time, the roles of caregivers, and the unseen burdens they carry.This etching is not only a masterful example of Goya’s skill with the medium but also a powerful commentary on the unseen and unappreciated labor in society’s margins. Each line and shadow Goya employs invites the viewer into a deeper discussion about the human condition and the silent stories of those like the nanny depicted here.