Mercurius sust Argus in slaap 1600 - 1647

This etching, *Mercurius sust Argus in slaap*, was created by Moyses van Wtenbrouck between 1600 and 1647. The scene depicts the Greek god Mercury, or Mercurius, putting Argus, a giant with one hundred eyes, to sleep. In this myth, Hera, the queen of the gods, had assigned Argus to guard Io, who was being pursued by Zeus. Mercury was sent by Zeus to free Io, and he achieved this by lulling Argus to sleep with music. The etching shows Mercury standing by a cow, while a seated, sleeping Argus lies next to it. This etching, measuring 256 mm high and 180 mm wide, is a fine example of Dutch Baroque art, showcasing the detailed and realistic style of the period.