Who painted Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep?

Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep was painted by Moyses van Uyttenbroeck in 1619.

Where can I see Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep?

Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep?

Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep

Moyses van Uyttenbroeck , 1619

Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Moyses van Uyttenbroeck. It dates from 1619 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Moyses van Uyttenbroeck’s 1619 etching, titled Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep, presents a mythological tableau in which the messenger god Mercury gently touches the head of the many‑eyed watchman Argus with a long staff, inducing drowsiness. In the background, a shepherd and a few cattle observe the scene, adding a pastoral dimension to the narrative.

Subject & Meaning

The composition visualizes a episode from Greek mythology: Mercury, acting on Jupiter’s orders, uses his music and charm to lull the vigilant Argus, whose many eyes normally prevent any intrusion. By rendering Argus in a sleepy state, the print underscores themes of deception, the power of persuasion, and the triumph of divine will over mortal vigilance.

Technique & Style

Created through traditional etching, van Uyttenbroeck incised fine lines into a copper plate, producing delicate tonal gradations and intricate detailing of figures and landscape. The artist’s handling of line conveys the softness of Mercury’s touch and the texture of the surrounding foliage, while the overall composition balances narrative clarity with ornamental elegance typical of early‑17th‑century Northern European printmaking.

History & Provenance

The work dates to 1619, situating it within van Uyttenbroeck’s mature period when he frequently engaged classical subjects. Though specific ownership records are scarce, the print has circulated among collections of Baroque prints and appears in catalogues of Dutch etchers, reflecting its continued scholarly interest as an example of mythological print art from the period.