Hercules and Antaeus 1780 - 1790

This Wedgwood jasperware plaque depicts the Greek myth of Hercules and Antaeus, a giant who could only be defeated when lifted off the ground. Josiah Wedgwood, a prominent English potter, used the classic tale to showcase the beauty and versatility of jasperware, a type of stoneware known for its smooth surface and delicate, colorful cameos. The relief of the scene is framed by a black jasperware border, adding to the contrast and visual drama of the work. This piece, made between 1780 and 1790, exemplifies Wedgwood's innovative approach to ceramics and his skillful use of neoclassical themes in decorative arts. It is a stunning example of Wedgwood's mastery of the medium, and is on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.