Hercules defeating the river god Acheolus in the form of a bull, with three women to his left holding cornucopias, from "Herculean Subjects"

Art Historical Context

In this dynamic engraving from ca. 1526–27, titled *Hercules defeating the god Achelous in form of a bull, three women to his left cornucopias*,aver Giovanni Jacopo Car interprets a design by the innovative Mannerist painter Rosso Fior. The scene depicts the mighty Hercules grappling with the shape-shifting river god Aous, transformed into a bull—a nod to one of the hero's lesser-known labors from classical mythology. Flanking Hercules are three elegant nude women bearing cornucopias, symbols of abundance that evoke the fertile blessings of rivers and nature. Part of the rare "Herculean Subjects" series, this print exemplifies the early Mannerist style: elongated forms, twisting poses, and heightened drama that break from High Renaissance harmony. Rosso's bold compositions, masterfully translated by Caraglio's precise burin work, highlight engraving's power as a reproductive medium, disseminating elite designs to collectors across Europe during the Renaissance. Measuring just 8 3/8 × 6 15/16 inches, this trimmed sheet from The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Elisha Whittelsey Collection captures Hercules' enduring cultural role as a symbol of heroic triumph and human potential, blending myth with artistic virtuosity for awe-inspired viewers.

About the Artist

Giovanni Jacopo Caraglio|Rosso Fiorentino · 1500–1565

Italian, Parma or Verona ca. 1500/1505–1565 Krakow (?)