Who painted The Infant Hercules with a Serpent?

The Infant Hercules with a Serpent was painted by Pieter van der Werff in 1711.

Where can I see The Infant Hercules with a Serpent?

The Infant Hercules with a Serpent is held by Rijksmuseum.

What movement is The Infant Hercules with a Serpent?

The Infant Hercules with a Serpent is associated with Dutch Golden Age.

Can I buy a print of The Infant Hercules with a Serpent?

Museum-quality prints of The Infant Hercules with a Serpent are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

The Infant Hercules with a Serpent

Pieter van der Werff , 1711

The Infant Hercules with a Serpent is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Pieter van der Werff. It dates from 1711 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Overview

The Infant Hercules with a Serpent is a 1711 oil painting by Pieter van der Werff, a Dutch painter active during the late 17th and early 18th centuries.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a mythological scene: the infant Hercules grasping snakes, conveying calmness and confidence amidst a potentially threatening situation. The baby's pose and expression suggest a sense of control and serenity.

Technique & Style

The work employs chiaroscuro, utilizing strong contrasts between light and dark to create depth and volume. Dark colors and shadows dominate the scene, drawing attention to the central figure and producing a dramatic effect.

History & Provenance

The painting is part of the Rijksmuseum's collection, contributing to the Dutch Golden Age tradition of history painting, a genre in which Pieter van der Werff worked alongside his brother Adriaen.