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The Labors of Hercules: Hercules Dragging Cerberus from the Underworld

1545
(German, 1500–1550)
Germany, 16th century
engraving
Mr. and Mrs. Lewis B. Williams Collection 1950.461
Catalogue raisonné: Pauli 104
Location: not on view
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Description

Hercules descended into Hades, the underworld, to bring back Cerberus, the three-headed dog who guards the entrance. Pluto, god of the underworld, agreed to let Hercules take Cerberus as long as he used no weapons. In this version of the scene, Hercules has abanded his club and shield in favor of three leashes to drag Cerberus from the inferno. Beham was one of several German printmakers referred to today as the “Little Masters.” They established their artistic prowess by engraving remarkably small prints, appealing to collectors fascinated with miniature objects and curiosities.
The Labors of Hercules: Hercules Dragging Cerberus from the Underworld

The Labors of Hercules: Hercules Dragging Cerberus from the Underworld

1545

Hans Sebald Beham

(German, 1500–1550)
Germany, 16th century

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