Artwork Page for The Labors of Hercules: Hercules Conquering Troy

Details / Information for The Labors of Hercules: Hercules Conquering Troy

The Labors of Hercules: Hercules Conquering Troy

1545

Hans Sebald Beham

(German, 1500–1550)
Culture
Germany
Medium
engraving
Credit Line
Mr. and Mrs. Lewis B. Williams Collection 1950.462
Catalogue raisonné
Pauli 105
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print

Description

According to legend, before the Trojan War, Hercules traveled to Troy and pillaged it. In this battle scene packed with soldiers and war horses, Hercules can be identified by the lion-skin cape billowing behind him. He uses a lance made from a small tree, torn out by the roots, while his steed tosses a piercing glance directly at the viewer. 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.
A horizontally oriented engraving in black ink depicts muscular nude men in a violent battle on horseback before dense foliage. Hercules, wielding a club, rides from the left toward an armored man with a spear. In the foreground, a horse lies on its back. A banner above reads, "HERCVLES MVLTIS BELLIS LACESSIT TROIAM." The year "1549" and initials "ISB" appear in the bottom corners.

The Labors of Hercules: Hercules Conquering Troy

1545

Hans Sebald Beham

(German, 1500–1550)
Germany

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