Artwork
Hercules and Cacus
Hercules and Cacus is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Master of 1515. It dates from 1518 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Hercules and Cacus is an engraving created by the artist known as Master of 1515 around 1518.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts a scene from mythology, showing Hercules wrestling Cacus, a giant serpent-like creature. Hercules stands on a rocky outcropping, wielding a club, as Cacus coils around him with tentacles and a scaly tail.
Technique & Style
The artist achieved a dramatic, textured effect through the use of cross-hatching, a technique involving closely spaced parallel lines that build up dark shadows and create depth.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
This anonymous engraver signed their work with a tiny "M" inside a circle, like a secret handshake.
