The Inquisition Tribunal
1812 Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando
About this artwork
This oil on panel painting depicts an interior scene of an Inquisition trial, characterized by Goya's dark, atmospheric use of light and shadow. It is part of a series of small panels that reflect Goya's criticism of institutional cruelty during his time.
Did you know?
Goya created this small-scale series as a scathing critique of the Spanish Inquisition, an institution he detested. By depicting the somber, oppressive atmosphere of a tribunal, he highlighted the dehumanizing nature of religious extremism and forced public penance. These works were deeply personal for the artist and were never intended for public display during his lifetime.
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The Inquisition Tribunal
Francisco Goya, 1812
