Hercules and Antaeus 1656 - 1689

This small sculpture of Hercules and Antaeus was made by Johan van Mander in the late 17th century. It is carved from boxwood, a dense and fine-grained material that allows for intricate detail. The sculpture depicts the mythical strongman Hercules in combat with Antaeus. He was a giant who gained strength from contact with the earth. Hercules learned this secret and defeats Antaeus by lifting him into the air. Consider the qualities of boxwood as you examine this piece: its capacity to hold crisp lines, seen in the figures' musculature and hair. Boxwood is challenging to carve, but also rewarding, as it can be polished to a smooth, almost luminous surface. Mander has clearly mastered the material. This brings a life-like quality to this scene of struggle. Paying attention to the material and process allows us to fully appreciate Mander’s artistry, seeing beyond the traditional boundaries of art and craft.