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Figurehead: Hercules

Virginia Richards

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture depicts a bearded male figure shown in profile, draped in what appears to be a lion's hide with the lion's face over his head and a golden mane flowing down his back. The figure stands upright with a partially unclothed torso revealing a muscular physique. The material seems to be of carved stone or wood with painted colors in earthy tones. The lion's mane and skin are a mix of golden and light brown hues with intricate shading for texture. A red drapery covers part of his lower body, contrasting with the yellow and brown shades. The figure stands on a dark, short, and intricately carved pedestal. The overall impression is one of classical antiquity, reminiscent of figures from ancient mythology.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1937
Medium
watercolor, colored pencil, and graphite on paperboard
Dimensions
2881 × 3854 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original