Hercules and Antaeus

Giovanni Pietro Possenti

Associated Names
Giovanni Pietro Possenti

Artist, Italian, 1618 - 1659

This is a drawing showing intertwined forms. The figures are depicted in dynamic poses with flowing fabric. One central figure lifts another in a powerful pose. The lines are drawn with a strong, lively style, capturing movement and strength. The background is minimal, with emphasis on light and shadow to highlight the figures' anatomy. The composition suggests struggle and drama, with deep lines creating depth and intensity in a classical theme.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching with plate tone on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Ruth Cole Kainen

  • Dimensions

    plate: 19 × 12.9 cm (7 1/2 × 5 1/16 in.)
    sheet: 19.2 × 13 cm (7 9/16 × 5 1/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2012.92.586

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Hollstein, no. 6, State only (under Pecham/Possenti, section B)

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Lucien Goldschmidt, Inc., New York, as Georg Pecham); Ruth Kainen, Washington, D.C., purchased April 1, 1977; Gift to NGA, 2012.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1802

  • Bartsch, Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna, 1802-1821: Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna: J.V. Degen, 1802-1821: 3, only (under Master CpP)

1949

  • Hollstein, F.W.H. et al. German engravings, etchings and woodcuts ca. 1400-1700. 8 vols. Amsterdam: Menno Hertzberger, 1954-1868: 6, only (under Pecham, section B)

Inscriptions

in image, at bottom left: CpP

Wikidata ID

Q76557248

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