Leander en Hero 1580

This small, oval-shaped engraving titled "Leander en Hero" (1580) by Hendrick Goltzius depicts the mythological tale of Leander swimming across the Hellespont to reach his beloved Hero. Leander is shown swimming with a torch in hand, as he traverses the stormy water towards the shore where Hero awaits him. The engraving is a masterful example of Goltzius's skill in depicting human anatomy and dynamic movement, and the detailed background with the city skyline in the distance adds a sense of depth and realism to the scene. Goltzius was known for his use of chiaroscuro, a technique that creates the illusion of light and shadow, which is evident in the engraving.