Hercules werpt Lichas in zee 1706

Hendrik van Limborch created this print, "Hercules werpt Lichas in zee," sometime in the early 18th century. It depicts Hercules, in a fit of rage, hurling Lichas into the sea. The image draws heavily from classical mythology, a common practice during this period, but it also reflects the societal values of the Dutch Golden Age. The focus on Hercules, a figure of immense power and virility, speaks to the era's fascination with strength and dominance. Consider, too, the role of institutions such as the Dutch East India Company, which celebrated and propagated an image of national strength. The print also subtly reinforces social hierarchies; Hercules, the hero, meting out justice – however brutal – to Lichas. Examining prints like these through the lens of social history allows us to unpack the complex interplay between art, power, and societal norms. Historical texts, such as accounts of the Dutch East India Company, and biographical research into van Limborch's patrons can deepen our understanding.