Francisco Goya (1746-1828) was a Spanish painter and printmaker, often hailed as the last of the Old Masters and the first of the moderns. Born in Fuendetodos, Spain, Goya began his art studies in Zaragoza before moving to Madrid. His work, initially rooted in the Rococo style, evolved over time, reflecting the tumultuous era in which he lived. Through powerful pieces like "The Third of May 1808," he captured the horrors of war and the dark corners of human nature. Goya's later works, like the haunting "Black Paintings" series, delved deeper into themes of insanity, decay, and supernatural. His fearless exploration of these subjects laid the groundwork for future avant-garde movements, making Goya an enduring figure in art history.