Hercules Conquering Cacus ("Ercules")

Hercules Conquering Cacus ("Ercules") by Albrecht Dürer is a powerful woodcut created in 1496. This early piece is foundational to Dürer’s reputation as a master draftsman and printmaker, demonstrating his commitment to elevating the status of the woodcut from a simple illustrative technique to a sophisticated artistic form. Executed in the late 15th century (the period of 1401 to 1500), the work merges classical subject matter with the sharp, graphic precision characteristic of Northern Renaissance prints.

The subject depicts the eighth labor of the legendary hero Hercules, wherein he vanquishes the fire-breathing giant Cacus, who had stolen cattle from him. The composition highlights the dramatic violence of the confrontation, utilizing the stark contrast inherent in the woodcut technique. Dürer’s skillful cross-hatching and bold outlines give the figures immense sculptural volume, despite the technical limitations of the medium. As a prominent German artist operating during the transition from the Gothic to the Renaissance styles, Dürer infused his classical subjects with intense emotional realism, reflecting the intellectual currents sweeping through his homeland.

This specific impression of the woodcut is held in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C., where it serves as a prime example of early German printmaking. The widespread distribution potential inherent in the medium of prints allowed Dürer’s fame to quickly spread across Europe. Due to the age and historical significance of the image, high-resolution reproductions of these early prints are often made available through public domain initiatives, ensuring widespread scholarly access to Dürer’s highly influential artistic output.