Hercules en Antaeus 1475 - 1499

Andrea Mantegna's "Hercules en Antaeus" is a masterful engraving from the late 15th century depicting the legendary Greek hero Hercules grappling with Antaeus, a giant who gained strength from the earth. The intricate details and expressive lines showcase Mantegna's skillful rendering of human anatomy, bringing to life the struggle between the two figures. The artwork, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, is a prime example of Mantegna's signature style, known for its classical influence and emphasis on perspective, as seen in the foreshortening of the figures and the detailed rendering of the background.