Hercules bringing Alcestis back to her husband Admetus 1715

This 1715 engraving by Louis Desplaces depicts a scene from Greek mythology: Hercules brings Alcestis back to her husband Admetus. Alcestis had agreed to die in Admetus' place, but Hercules, a hero known for his strength and bravery, descended into the Underworld and wrestled her back to life. Desplaces' work, like many of his pieces, features a dynamic composition and strong use of chiaroscuro. The piece's inscription indicates that it was dedicated to the Duke of Orléans, the Regent of France. The etching is currently in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.