Who painted Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep?

Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep was painted by Moyses van Uyttenbroeck in 1619.

Where can I see Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep?

Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep?

Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep?

Museum-quality prints of Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep

Moyses van Uyttenbroeck , 1619

Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Moyses van Uyttenbroeck. It dates from 1619 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Created early in the artist's career, this print reflects the period's interest in classical mythology and the technical mastery of the etching medium.

Moyses van Uyttenbroeck's 1619 etching, Mercury Lulling Argus to Sleep, depicts a pivotal moment from Ovid's Metamorphoses where the messenger god Mercury sedates the hundred-eyed giant Argus. The composition centers on Mercury, who stands holding a long staff, using it to gently touch Argus's head to induce slumber. Argus is portrayed as a reclining figure with multiple eyes, his expression shifting toward drowsiness as the enchantment takes effect.

In the surrounding landscape, cows graze peacefully and a shepherd sits nearby, elements that contextualize the mythological narrative within a pastoral setting. Executed with fine, precise lines characteristic of early 17th-century Dutch etching, the work demonstrates van Uyttenbroeck's skill in rendering texture and atmospheric depth on a metal plate. Created early in the artist's career, this print reflects the period's interest in classical mythology and the technical mastery of the etching medium.

The scene captures the transition from vigilance to sleep, facilitating Jupiter's subsequent intervention in the myth. The work remains a significant example of van Uyttenbroeck's contribution to Dutch graphic arts during the Golden Age.

Subject & Meaning

The composition visualizes a episode from Greek mythology: Mercury, acting on Jupiter’s orders, uses his music and charm to lull the vigilant Argus, whose many eyes normally prevent any intrusion. By rendering Argus in a sleepy state, the print underscores themes of deception, the power of persuasion, and the triumph of divine will over mortal vigilance.

Technique & Style

Created through traditional etching, van Uyttenbroeck incised fine lines into a copper plate, producing delicate tonal gradations and intricate detailing of figures and landscape. The artist’s handling of line conveys the softness of Mercury’s touch and the texture of the surrounding foliage, while the overall composition balances narrative clarity with ornamental elegance typical of early‑17th‑century Northern European printmaking.

History & Provenance

The work dates to 1619, situating it within van Uyttenbroeck’s mature period when he frequently engaged classical subjects. Though specific ownership records are scarce, the print has circulated among collections of Baroque prints and appears in catalogues of Dutch etchers, reflecting its continued scholarly interest as an example of mythological print art from the period.