Laocoon
1850
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1850
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This print shows a dramatic scene from mythology. A muscular man, Laocoon, is struggling with two giant snakes that are wrapping around him and his sons. The man's face is contorted in a scream as he tries to fight off the snakes. His sons are also trying to escape, but the snakes are too powerful. The print is done in a detailed and realistic style, with lots of texture and shading. The artist has used chiaroscuro to create a sense of depth and drama, with strong contrasts between light and dark. If you want to learn more about the artist behind this print, check out Gregori, Ferdinando.