Mejor es holgar. (It is better to be lazy.) — History & Facts
In Mejor es holgar, Francisco de Goya presents a scene filled with warm earth tones and soft shadows. The painting depicts a relaxed figure lounging in a natural setting, embodying the essence of laziness. Surrounding the figure are lush greenery and a tranquil atmosphere, enhancing the sense of leisure.
The overall composition invites the viewer to reflect on the beauty of idleness. Goya employs oil on canvas to create this work, using a palette that emphasizes warmth and comfort. The brushwork is fluid, capturing the softness of the figure's posture and the surrounding environment. The painting's dimensions are approximately 60 x 80 cm, making it a medium-sized piece that draws the viewer in.
The use of light and shadow adds depth, creating a sense of space around the figure. Francisco de Goya was a prominent Spanish painter known for his critical and often dark commentary on society. Mejor es holgar reflects a lighter side of his work, focusing on the theme of leisure rather than the struggles of life. Interestingly, this painting was created during a time when Goya was exploring various themes, including the contrast between work and idleness.
It serves as a reminder of the importance of relaxation in a busy world.
More Artworks by Francisco de Goya

El sueño de la razon produce moustruos (Serie Caprichos)
Francisco de Goya

Portrait of Doña María Teresa de Vallabriga y Rozas (1759-1820)
Francisco de Goya

Portrait of the Duchess of Osuna
Francisco de Goya

Queen of Spain Maria Louisa, née Bourbon-Parma
Francisco de Goya

Queen María Luisa on horseback
Francisco de Goya

Y no hai remedio
Francisco de Goya

The Immaculate Conception
Francisco de Goya

Portrait of Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos
Francisco de Goya

Portrait of Maria Josefa of Spain
Francisco de Goya

Charles IV in his Hunting Clothes
Francisco de Goya
More Genre Scene Art

Banquet of the Officers of the St George Civic Guard
Frans Hals

Rembrandt and Saskia in the Scene of the Prodigal Son
Rembrandt van Rijn

Bal du moulin de la Galette
Pierre-Auguste Renoir

Quadrille at the Moulin Rouge
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec

A Burial at Ornans
Gustave Courbet

When Will You Marry?
Paul Gauguin
