What you are looking at
The god Saturn, wild eyed and gaunt, tears into the headless body of one of his children against a black background.
Why it is famous
It is one of the Black Paintings Goya painted directly on the walls of his house outside Madrid late in life, never meant for the public. After his death they were transferred to canvas, and they are now at the Prado.
How big is Saturn Devouring His Son?
Saturn Devouring His Son measures 143.5 × 81.4 cm (56.5 × 32.0 in), without its frame. Its surface is about 3 times the area of the Mona Lisa.
Compare it with other paintings
Where to see it
The Black Paintings hang together in one room at the Prado.
Museums move and lend paintings. Check the museum's website before you travel to see one work. See all famous paintings in Madrid.
More by Francisco Goya
Also at the Museo del Prado
Frequently asked questions
Who painted Saturn Devouring His Son?
Francisco Goya painted Saturn Devouring His Son in c. 1819 to 1823.
Where is Saturn Devouring His Son?
Saturn Devouring His Son is in the Museo del Prado, Madrid, Spain.
How big is Saturn Devouring His Son?
143.5 × 81.4 cm (56.5 × 32.0 in). Its surface is about 3 times the area of the Mona Lisa.
What is Saturn Devouring His Son made with?
Oil mural transferred to canvas.
Sources: Wikidata Q1150997; Wikipedia, "Saturn Devouring His Son". Checked October 17, 2026. How we check.