Hercules and Antaeus
c. 1495
Medium
engraving on laid paper
Dimensions
sheet: 32.8 x 22.4 cm (12 15/16 x 8 13/16 in.)
Classification
Department
CG-E
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Gift of W.G. Russell Allen
Accession Number
1941.1.9
Art Historical Context
Behold the dynamic *Hercules and Antaeus an engraving from the workshop of Andrea Mantegna, created around 1495. This Renaissance masterpiece captures a pivotal moment from classical mythology: the mighty Hercules hoists the giant Antaeus off the ground, crushing him to thwart the earth-born warrior's invincibility. Mantegna, a pioneering Italian artist from Padua, was renowned for his mastery of, classical motifs, and intricate detail, influences that permeated his workshop's output during the late 15th century. Printed on laid paper—a period staple with its distinctive chain lines visible u...