Hercules en Cacus 1588

"Hercules en Cacus" is an engraving by Hendrick Goltzius, a prominent Dutch printmaker of the late 16th century. Created in 1588, the artwork depicts the mythological scene of Hercules battling the monstrous Cacus, who had stolen cattle from the hero. Goltzius’s signature style of exaggerated anatomy and dynamic composition are evident in this piece. The print showcases the powerful struggle between the two figures, with Hercules wielding a club and Cacus’s tail ensnaring the hero. The intricate details of the background, including the stolen cattle and the cave where Cacus resided, add depth and narrative context to the scene. This dramatic and highly detailed engraving was a popular subject for collectors of Goltzius’s work and continues to impress viewers today.