The Cleveland Museum of Art
Collection Online as of December 20, 2025
The Labors of Hercules: Hercules Conquering Troy
1545
(German, 1500–1550)
Catalogue raisonné: Pauli 105
Location: Not on view
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.- {{cite web|title=The Labors of Hercules: Hercules Conquering Troy|url=false|author=Hans Sebald Beham|year=1545|access-date=20 December 2025|publisher=Cleveland Museum of Art}}
Source URL:
https://www.clevelandart.org/art/1950.462