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The Labors of Hercules: Hercules Killing the Lernean Hydra, 1545. Creator: Hans Sebald Beham
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The Labors of Hercules: Hercules Killing the Lernean Hydra, 1545. Creator: Hans Sebald Beham
The Labors of Hercules: Hercules Killing the Lernean Hydra, 1545. Hercules and his nephew Iolaus work together to defeat the multiheaded hydra of Lerna. To stop the hydra from regrowing its heads, Iolaus torches each neck as Hercules removes the head with his club. Meanwhile, a lobster aids the hydra by attacking Herculess heel. According to legend, Hercules dipped his arrowheads in the dead hydras blood to make them poisonous. Beham was one of several German printmakers referred to today as the " Little Masters." They established their artistic prowess by engraving remarkably small prints, appealing to collectors fascinated with miniature objects and curiosities
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Media ID 19644609
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
1500 1550 Hans Sebald Beham Hans Sebald Beham German
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intense and mythical scene of "The Labors of Hercules: Hercules Killing the Lernean Hydra" created by Hans Sebald Beham in 1545. In this artwork, we witness the mighty Hercules and his nephew Iolaus joining forces to vanquish the formidable multiheaded hydra of Lerna. To prevent the hydra from regenerating its heads, Iolaus skillfully sets ablaze each neck while Hercules wields his club to sever them. However, an unexpected twist unfolds as a cunning lobster aids the hydra by attacking Hercules' vulnerable heel. According to legend, it is said that after defeating the hydra, Hercules dipped his arrowheads into its venomous blood for added potency. This detail adds depth and intrigue to Beham's portrayal of this iconic mythological tale. Hans Sebald Beham was part of a group known as the "Little Masters". German printmakers who gained recognition for their exceptional skills in creating remarkably small prints. Their works were highly sought after by collectors fascinated with miniature objects and curiosities. This remarkable engraving captures both the strength and vulnerability displayed during this legendary battle between man and beast. Preserved within The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection, this piece allows us to appreciate Beham's artistic prowess while immersing ourselves in ancient mythology brought vividly to life through intricate details and masterful craftsmanship.
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