Hercules and the Nemean Lion

Italian 15th Century, after the Antique

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture depicts a relief scene featuring two figures engaged in a struggle. The figures appear to be a man and a lion, intertwined and positioned on a small base. The sculpture is made of a dark material, likely bronze, with a brownish patina. The dimensions are small and thin, resembling a medallion or plaque. It has an oval shape with a small hole at the top. The style is detailed, capturing the movement and interaction between the subjects compactly.