The Farnese Hercules, seen from behind [plate 4]

François Perrier

1638

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Baroque Baroque Mythology

About this work

This is a black-and-white drawing of a muscular man from behind, lifting something heavy over his head. His back is wide, his arms straining, and his legs are bent slightly. The lines are tight and busy, showing every muscle and fold of his clothes. The artist used a technique that lets them carve directly into the metal plate, creating fine details. This kind of drawing was often used to study the human body in motion. Look up etching to see how artists make these kinds of prints.