Hero en Leander 1569

"Hero en Leander" is an engraving by Philips Galle created in 1569. Depicting the Greek mythological story of Leander, a young man who swims across the Hellespont to see his lover Hero, the print is full of detail and symbolism. The artist uses a dramatic composition to show Leander swimming towards the shore, his arms outstretched as he battles the raging waves. In the background, a cityscape and a bridge add to the feeling of grand scale and the dangerous journey he faces. This artwork, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, is a fine example of Renaissance-era engravings and offers a compelling visual narrative for art-lovers.