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No More, No Less

Art Appreciation

This intriguing artwork presents a surreal scene where a donkey and a monkey seemingly engage in a creative interaction. The donkey is seated upright, its front legs extended as if replying or reaching out to the monkey, who sits opposite on a block, wielding a paintbrush and palette with an artist's intent. Behind them looms a dark, rectangular structure featuring the faded profile of another horse's head, subtly adding depth and mystery to the composition. The interplay of these anthropomorphized animals evokes a blend of humor and satire, a hallmark of the artist’s style.

Rendered through delicate etching with a limited monochromatic palette, this piece uses fine lines and shading that create texture and volume against a muted background. The composition balances simplicity and complexity—while the animals dominate the foreground with curious expressions and gestures, the somber backdrop and the horse’s indirect gaze lend a timeless, almost theatrical atmosphere. The handwritten inscription beneath reads “Ni mas ni menos,” which translates as "No more, no less," adding a layer of ironic commentary that invites viewers to ponder notions of equality, talent, or perhaps the absurdity of artistic endeavor itself. The overall effect is at once whimsical and thought-provoking, wrapping social critique in playful imagery.

No More, No Less

Francisco Goya

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Created:

Date unknown

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Dimensions:

2329 × 3000 px

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