The Dramatic Image: Baroque Prints of the 17th Century

After Charles Le Brun
French, 1619–1690

Fontaine d’Hercule et d’Antèe
(Fountain of Hercules and Antaeus) from Recueil de divers Desseins de Fontaines et de Frises Maritimes
(A Collection of Designs for Fountains and Maritime Frieze Sculptures)

Engraving, about 1680
Museum Purchase, 1967.128g

A stream of water issues from the mouth of Antaeus in this fountain design. In Greek mythology, the giant Antaeus challenged Hercules to a wrestling match. Antaeus, who drew his strength from the Earth, could not be defeated as long as he touched the ground. Hercules held him aloft until his strength was destroyed.