Hercules and Nessus, c. 1525-1561
Jacob Binckexpand_more
Engravingexpand_more
Gift of Elizabeth, Julie, and Catherine Andrus in memory of John and Marion Andrusexpand_more 2015.93.48
Not on Viewexpand_more
In a comical turn, Jacob Binck conflated Hercules with the wreath-wearing Wild Man, a lustful, terrifying forest creature of medieval folklore. In myth, Hercules shoots the centaur Nessus with an arrow for offending his wife Deianeira. Here he demonstrates his brute strength (another Wild Man trait) with his gnarled club, a symbol of his virtue. His deflated foe literally bends to his will.
Details
- Title
- Hercules and Nessus
- Artist Life
- about 1500-1569
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2015.93.48
- Provenance
- John E. Andrus III, Wayzata, Minn.; by descent to his daughters, Elizabeth, Katie, and Julie; gave to MIA, 2015. Earlier provenances have been gathered, but further research will increase our knowledge of their histories.
- Catalogue Raisonne
- Bartsch 49 (vol. 8, p. 276); Hollstein 95 (only state)
- Curator Approved
This record is from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator, so may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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