Artwork
Hercules and Antaeus
Hercules and Antaeus is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Gabriel Salmon. It dates from 1528 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Hercules and Antaeus is a woodcut print created by Gabriel Salmon around 1528, depicting a scene from mythology.
Subject & Meaning
The print shows Hercules wrestling Antaeus, with the latter entwined in vines resembling roots, referencing the mythological figures' legendary combat.
Technique & Style
The woodcut features rough, deep lines and shading that accentuate the muscular figures and convey movement, particularly in the arms and legs.
Context
The scene is set against a backdrop of a small town and rocky cliff, providing a landscape context for the mythological struggle.
Artist & collection
