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Hercules and Cacus, 1588. Creator: Hendrik Goltzius
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Hercules and Cacus, 1588. Creator: Hendrik Goltzius
Hercules and Cacus, 1588
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Media ID 36353172
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
1580s Attack Attacking Cacus Goltzius Hendrick Goltzius Hendrik Hendrick Goltzius Hendrik Goltzius Henry Goltzius Heracles Herakles Hercules Mythical Figure Mythological Figure Greek Mythology Roman Mythology
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Hercules and Cacus
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating chiaroscuro woodcut print created by the renowned Dutch artist Hendrik Goltzius in the late 16th century. This masterpiece, produced around 1588, showcases the dynamic interplay between light and shadow, with intricate details that bring the mythological narrative to life. The print depicts the legendary Greek hero Hercules, clad only in a lion pelt, engaged in a fierce attack against the monstrous figure of Cacus. Cacus, a giant and a son of Vulcan, is known for his cunning and strength. He had been terrorizing the countryside, stealing cattle and causing destruction. Hercules, on a mission to rid the land of this menace, tracks Cacus to his lair, a cave located near the Aventine Hill in Rome. In this print, Hercules is shown with his characteristic club in hand, poised to strike, while Cacus, with a terrifying expression, grabs a boulder to hurl back at the hero. The contrast between the heroic, muscular figure of Hercules and the monstrous form of Cacus is striking, emphasizing the epic battle between good and evil. This black and white woodcut, printed in black pale ocher and light blue, is a testament to Goltzius' exceptional skill as a printmaker. The intricate details, from the veins on Hercules' muscles to the textures of Cacus' rocky lair, are rendered with remarkable precision and depth. The use of chiaroscuro, a technique that employs strong contrasts between light and dark, adds a sense of drama and intensity to the scene. This print, now part of the collection at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, is a significant piece of European art from the 16th century. It represents the rich heritage of Greek and Roman mythology, as well as the artistic legacy of the Low Countries. The image of Hercules and Cacus continues to captivate viewers with its timeless story of heroism and triumph over adversity.
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