Artwork

Footed Vessel with Handle (verso)

Footed Vessel with Handle (verso), by Annibale Carracci, 1596
Footed Vessel with Handle (verso), by Annibale Carracci, 1596

Footed Vessel with Handle (verso) is a drawing by the Renaissance artist Annibale Carracci. It dates from 1596 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This drawing is a preparatory study for a fresco depicting Hercules after completing his twelve labors, commissioned for the Farnese palace in Rome.

Subject & Meaning

Hercules is shown resting, surrounded by symbols of his labors: the Erymanthian boar's head, the golden apples of the Hesperides, and the Nemean lion's hide. The portrayal contrasts with traditional triumphant depictions, instead conveying exhaustion.

Technique & Style

The drawing features exaggerated musculature, influenced by ancient Roman sculptures of river gods in the Farnese collection and possibly Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel frescoes. The artist likely employed chiaroscuro to create depth through strong light and shadow.

History & Provenance

Commissioned by Cardinal Odoardo Farnese for his study's ceiling in the Farnese palace, Rome. Created as a final study for a fresco, with potential inspiration from Michelangelo's 'Creation of Adam'.

Context

Part of a broader Renaissance interest in classical themes and artistic techniques, reflecting the patron's collection and the artist's knowledge of renowned works like the Sistine Chapel ceiling (1508-1510).

Legacy

This study, through its unique depiction of Hercules and its artistic influences, contributes to the understanding of Renaissance artistic practices and the evolution of classical themes in art.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Annibale Carracci

Artist

Annibale Carracci

Annibale Carracci ( kə-RAH-chee, UK also kə-RATCH-ee, Italian: ; November 3, 1560 – July 15, 1609) was an Italian painter and instructor, active in Bologna and later in Rome.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.