The Pillars of Hercules, from The Labors of Hercules 1550

"The Pillars of Hercules, from The Labors of Hercules" is a 1550 engraving by German artist Heinrich Aldegrever. The print depicts the mythical Greek hero Hercules carrying the Pillars of Hercules, a pair of massive columns representing the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar. This labor refers to one of Hercules' twelve tasks. The engraving uses a detailed and realistic style to depict the scene, showcasing Aldegrever’s mastery of the medium. The scene is set in a rocky landscape, highlighting the immense strength of Hercules and the monumental size of the pillars. The engraving's inscription in Latin translates to "With his powerful hands he carries the columns from the earth, and sets up a monument to the eternal god Chon". The artwork is part of a series depicting Hercules' twelve labors and is currently in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.