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Statuette of Hercules
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The Art Institute of Chicago

Statuette of Hercules

Description

The weary hero Hercules stands at rest after completing his Eleventh Labor: stealing three golden apples from a tree guarded by nymphs known as the Hesperides. Here, he holds the apples behind his back. Originally his left arm was supported by his club, which was cast separately and is now missing. This statuette is a copy of the lost masterpiece of Herakles by the Greek sculptor Lysippos, which became one of the definitive images of Hercules in classical antiquity and into the Renaissance in the 15th century.

Provenance

Possibly ex-collection Edward H. Merrin Gallery 1977 [according to notes in curatorial file]; sold to B.C. Holland of Objects Inc., Chicago, by June 5, 1978 [receipt no. 36220 in curatorial file]; sold to the Art Institute of Chicago, 1978.

Dimensions

22 × 11.4 × 8.6 cm (8 11/16 × 4 1/2 × 3 3/8 in.)

Movement / Period

Classical

Accession No

52764

Curatorial Affinity Stream

Continuing the Universe of Roman

Classical • Roman Empire • Harmonious Works & Contemporaries