Hercules and the Hydra

c. 1570/1587

Annibale Fontana

Associated Names
Annibale Fontana

Artist, Milanese, 1540 - 1587

The sculpture features a human figure fighting a serpent-like creature. The human is in an action pose, muscles tense, holding a club or stick. The creature has multiple snake-like heads and is rearing up. The sculpture is dark in color, possibly made of bronze or metal, giving it a patinated look. The scene is set in a stylized natural setting with trees and bushes. The piece is displayed on a rectangular relief, adding depth to the intricate carvings.

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On View

West Building Ground Floor, Gallery G16

Artwork overview

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Purchased c. 1960/1985 by Lisa and Leonard Baskin, Leeds, Massachusetts; gift 1999 to NGA.

Associated Names

Inscriptions

upper right reverse, in white paint: 176; printed round paper sticker reverse: THE BRITISH ANTIQUE DEALERS ASSOCIATION; round sticker, removed from reverse: THE ADAMS COLLECTION / 80 / BONHAMS / 2

Wikidata ID

Q63861548

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