Hercules Killing Cacus

Heinrich Aldegrever

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a confrontation in a rocky landscape involving cattle. The drawing depicts a muscular figure standing over another figure on the ground, surrounded by cattle. The standing figure holds a knotted club and appears to be striking, while the recumbent figure lies defensively. In the background, another figure is leading a cattle into a cave in reverse direction. The scene is detailed with rocky textures, trees, and clouds casting shadows. The drawing showcases an intense narrative moment with dramatic action, set in a classical and mythic atmosphere.