Artwork
Hercules Killing Cacus
Hercules Killing Cacus is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Hendrick Goltzius. It dates from 1588 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:center left in plate: A* 88 HGoltzius. Inue.; lower right in brown ink: 16; by later hand, lower right verso in graphite: tres rare G. 221 / an. 88 H. toten Kakus
About this work
Overview
Hendrick Goltzius's 'Hercules Killing Cacus' is a 1588 chiaroscuro woodcut print on laid paper, showcasing the artist's technical skill and compositional complexity.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a scene from mythology where Hercules slays the giant Cacus, exemplifying Goltzius's ability to convey dynamic movement and narrative through his work.
Technique & Style
Using olive green, black, and pale yellow, Goltzius achieved a dramatic, three-dimensional effect through strong contrasts, characteristic of his painterly approach to printmaking and the chiaroscuro technique.
History & Provenance
Created in 1588 by Goltzius, a prominent figure in Northern Mannerism, this work reflects his reputation as a leading Dutch engraver of the early Baroque period.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Hendrick Goltzius (German: , Dutch: ; né Goltz; January or February 1558 – 1 January 1617) was a German-born Dutch printmaker, draftsman, and painter.
