Artwork Page for The Labors of Hercules: Hercules Dragging Cerberus from the Underworld

Details / Information for 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)
Culture
Germany
Medium
engraving
Credit Line
Mr. and Mrs. Lewis B. Williams Collection 1950.461
Catalogue raisonné
Pauli 104
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print

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

1545

Hans Sebald Beham

(German, 1500–1550)
Germany

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