Todos Caerán. (All will fall.) (1796-1797)

"Todos Caerán" (All Will Fall), a captivating etching by the renowned Spanish artist Francisco de Goya, dates back to 1796-1797. This piece is part of Goya’s famous series, “Los Caprichos,” which is known for its critical reflection on societal norms and human folly. The image offers a rich tableau of figures that seem to exist both in reality and fantasy.The central scene depicts four figures: one seemingly bewildered woman and three others who appear either comforting or restraining her, playing with a baby doll. Above this group, the artwork displays a magical realm where winged cherubs actively interact. As fantasy meets reality in a delicate dance, these celestial beings are depicted handling banderoles or involved in various playful actions, hovering with great animation.What stands out in Goya’s "Todos Caerán" is its possible allegorical representations of control, vulnerability, and the inevitable follies that beset human life. The title itself, "All Will Fall," suggests a universal collapse or failing, perhaps echoing the human susceptibility to downfall—whether moral, physical, or societal.Goya masterfully uses a subdued palette and fine lines to render details and expressions, creating a captivating visual narrative that invites viewers to delve deeper into the underlying meanings.