Figurehead: Hercules

c. 1937

Virginia Richards

Associated Names
Virginia Richards

Artist, American, active c. 1935

The sculpture depicts a bearded male figure shown in profile, draped in what appears to be a lion's hide with the lion's face over his head and a golden mane flowing down his back. The figure stands upright with a partially unclothed torso revealing a muscular physique. The material seems to be of carved stone or wood with painted colors in earthy tones. The lion's mane and skin are a mix of golden and light brown hues with intricate shading for texture. A red drapery covers part of his lower body, contrasting with the yellow and brown shades. The figure stands on a dark, short, and intricately carved pedestal. The overall impression is one of classical antiquity, reminiscent of figures from ancient mythology.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    watercolor, colored pencil, and graphite on paperboard

  • Credit Line

    Index of American Design

  • Dimensions

    overall: 28.8 x 22.9 cm (11 5/16 x 9 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1943.8.9902


Artwork history & notes

Wikidata ID

Q64633887

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