Hercules Killing the Hydra of Lerna 1552 - 1565

This etching, "Hercules Killing the Hydra of Lerna," was created by Battista Franco in 1552-1565. The print depicts the Greek hero Hercules battling the multi-headed serpent, the Lernaean Hydra. Franco skillfully captures the intense struggle between the two figures, with Hercules's powerful form contrasting dramatically with the serpentine, multi-headed beast. This artwork demonstrates Franco's interest in classical mythology, particularly the exploits of Hercules, a popular subject for Renaissance artists. The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York houses this intricate etching.