Was Francisco Goya a Sorcerer? The Dark Secrets of Los Caprichos

London | 28 November – 5 December 2025

F rancisco Goya’s Los Caprichos is a masterclass in fear, folly, and the art of hidden truths. From witches taking flight to sinister figures preying on the vulnerable, Goya used his prints as a dark mirror of Spain’s moral decline. Each image is layered with symbolism, inviting viewers to question what is real and what is superstition. Even centuries later, the eerie power of his work lingers, challenging us to reflect on human behaviour and societal fears.

Behind every grotesque figure and shadowy scene lies a deeper story of courage, wit, and critique. Goya’s prints blur the line between art and alchemy, using humour, horror, and imagination to reveal the follies that distract us from true danger. Los Caprichos is more than historical commentary—it’s a timeless exploration of reason, vice, and the enduring fascination with the dark side of human nature. This harrowing collection is on offer as a highlight of the Old Master Prints sale, presented by Qatar Executive, taking place at Sotheby's London from 28 November to 5 December.

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