Hercules and Antaeus 1780 - 1790

Josiah Wedgwood crafted this basalt stoneware plaque depicting "Hercules and Antaeus," presenting us with a gripping scene of mortal combat. Here, Hercules overpowers Antaeus, lifting him away from the earth, which was the source of his strength. This motif of the hero's triumph is steeped in symbolism. The raised fist, a gesture we see echoed through the ages, from ancient Roman battle reliefs to modern political posters, signifies power and defiance. In contrast, Antaeus's clinging embrace speaks to a primal connection to the earth, a nurturing, maternal force. Consider how the image of a hero locked in mortal combat has permeated our collective consciousness, resurfacing in countless forms, each time reflecting the anxieties and aspirations of a new era. It’s a potent reminder of how deeply ingrained these archetypes are in our shared human experience.