Artwork
Hercules and Cerberus

Hercules and Cerberus is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Peter Paul Rubens. It dates from 1636 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.
About this work
Overview
Hercules and Cerberus is a 1636 oil painting by Peter Paul Rubens, a Flemish artist known for his dynamic and expressive works.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a scene from mythology, showing Hercules wrestling Cerberus, the three-headed dog that guards the underworld. The figures are set against a cave-like background with indistinct figures, drawing on classical history for its subject matter.
Technique & Style
The work exemplifies the Flemish Baroque style, characterized by vivid color and bold brushstrokes. Rubens's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth, with the figures standing out against a darker background, emphasizing the drama of the scene.
History & Provenance
The painting is now held in the collection of the Museo del Prado, a testament to its enduring significance.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Sir Peter Paul Rubens ( ROO-bənz; Dutch: ; 28 June 1577 – 30 May 1640) was a Flemish artist and diplomat.



















