Hercules wurgt twee slangen in zijn wieg by Etienne Delaune

Hercules wurgt twee slangen in zijn wieg 1573 - 1580

pencil drawn

photo of handprinted image

light pencil work

shading to add clarity

pencil sketch

old engraving style

personal sketchbook

ink colored

sketchbook drawing

pencil work

"Hercules wurgt twee slangen in zijn wieg" is an etching by French artist Etienne Delaune, dating to between 1573 and 1580. This small-scale artwork, measuring only 45mm by 33mm, depicts the famous Greek myth of Hercules as a baby. The scene shows Hercules in his cradle, strangling two snakes sent by Hera. This intricate engraving highlights Delaune's mastery of detail, capturing the struggle and drama of the moment. The etching is held in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, and serves as a testament to Delaune's skill in representing mythological subjects.