Hercules and Lichas, Seen from the Front

Pietro Fontana and Giovanni Folo, after Antonio Canova

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture depicts two human figures. The central figure is a muscular, bearded man standing in an aggressive posture, gripping the leg of a smaller figure who appears distressed. The smaller figure is upside down, held by one leg, with sprawling arms and a pained expression. Both figures are nude with detailed anatomical features. The sculpture is monochrome, likely made from stone or plaster, with a smooth texture resembling marble. The larger figure stands on a lion-headed base, adding to the sculpture's grandeur. It is placed on a plain background.