1545
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Hercules Killing Antaeus is a 1545 ink by Sebald Beham, a Renaissance work, depicting Heracles, held at National Gallery of Art.
This engraving shows Hercules lifting Antaeus off the ground. Antaeus, a giant, loses his strength when he’s not touching the earth. The lines are sharp and detailed, making the struggle feel real. Beham used cross-hatching here—tiny lines that build up shadows and texture. It makes the muscles pop and the scene feel urgent. This wasn’t just about the myth; it showed off his skill. See how the lines crowd the edges? That pushes your eye right to the action. If you like this, check out Beham, Sebald.
Sebald Beham (1500–1550) was a German painter and printmaker, mainly known for his very small engravings.
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