Hercules Fighting the Nemean Lion

Brescia, Giovanni Antonio da (mentioned on object), after 1507

Slaying the Nemean lion was the first of the Twelve Labours of Hercules. It was a favourite subject among artists, representing the victory of human virtue over bestial lust. The engraver used a now-lost drawing by Mantegna for this print. He rendered light and shade with parallel lines, creating the illusion of a depiction of an ancient marble sculpture.

  • Artwork typeprint
  • Object numberRP-P-OB-1969
  • Dimensionsheight 282 mm x width 253 mm
  • Physical characteristicskopergravure