Pair of17th century German Carved Groups Depicting the Labors of Hercules

Pair of Carved Groups Depicting the Labors of Hercules
Southern Germany, 17th century

Oak wood
Height: 38 cm / 40 cm

Two mythological episodes from the cycle of the Labors of Hercules are depicted here:
The first represents the capture of the Ceryneian Hind, the second, the struggle against the Nemean Lion. Forming a pair, the composition of each group subtly mirrors the other, notably in the positioning of the knees pressing into the backs of the beasts, and in the hero’s hands gripping the animal’s head.

These works display a strong sense of dynamism from every angle. The athletic anatomical proportions of the hero are skillfully rendered, and the modeling of the flesh and hair is vigorous throughout, without any trace of affectation. We are in the presence of a sculptor who fully masters his art.

The style of these pieces suggests they were made in Southern Germany during the 17th century. Their pronounced three-dimensionality and dynamic movement place them in the tradition of sculptural explorations initiated slightly earlier in Italy by Giambologna.