Hercules and Cerberus, from "Ex Antiquis Cameorum et Gemmae Delineata"

Art Historical Context

Welcome to the Metropolitan Museum of's Drawings and Prints gallery, where *Hercules and Cerus* captivates with its classical drama. This small engraving (3 7/16 x 4 7/8 in.), the third state from the series *Ex Antiquis Came et Gemmae Deline* ("Drawn from Cameos and Gems"), the mythic hero wrestling the three-headed guard dog of the Underworld—one of Hercules' famed Twelve Labors. Published around 1599–162, it faithfully reproduces an ancient cameo or gem, showcasing Renaissance fascination with Greco-Roman antiquity. Crafted by Italian 16th-century talents including engravers Battista Franco and Enea Vico, with later involvement from Philippe Thomassin and collector Francesco Angeloni, the print highlights engraving's precision. This intaglio technique allowed intricate details—from Cerberus' snarling jaws to Hercules' muscular strain—to be captured on a tiny plate, making classical motifs accessible to scholars and collectors. The "third state" refers to a refined edition, likely with added details or publisher's marks, reflecting evolving printmaking practices. Part of The Elisha Whittelsey Collection (1949), this work bridges ancient myth and early modern revival, underscoring how prints democratized art history. Imagine Europe's elite poring over such gems, fueling the humanist spirit—what labors might inspire you today?

About the Artist

Francesco Angeloni|Battista Franco|Philippe Thomassin|Enea Vico|Anonymous, Italian, 16th century (Italian|Italian|French|Italian|Italian) · 1559 |1510 |1562 |1523 |1500 –1652 |1561 |1622 |1567 |1600

Terni 1559 or 1587–1652 Rome|Italian, Venice ca. 1510–1561 Venice|French, Troyes 1562–1622 Rome|Italian, Parma 1523–1567 Ferrara|