Buste van Hercules 1646 - 1670

Hubert Quellinus created this print of a Hercules bust in the Netherlands. Hercules, a Greco-Roman hero celebrated for his strength, courage, and virtue, carries a complex set of symbolic meanings. Made during the Dutch Golden Age, this image needs to be understood within its political and cultural context. In a society shaped by humanist ideals, Hercules would be seen as the protector of the weak and a champion of justice. His image served as a reminder of the virtues that were essential to maintaining a stable and prosperous society. The lion skin draped over his shoulder references his first labor; to kill the Nemean lion, a monster that was terrorizing the local population. Hercules' club is a symbol of his power and his ability to overcome any obstacle. To truly appreciate this Hercules print, one needs to look at the Dutch Republic’s embrace of classical imagery as a reflection of its aspirations for greatness and its commitment to civic virtue. By exploring archival records, and printed sources, we can gain a deeper understanding of the social forces that shaped this artwork.