The artwork “Hercules Killing the Molionides” was created by Albrecht Dürer in 1496. This piece is a woodcut representing the Northern Renaissance art movement, and it is classified within the mythological painting genre. The artwork can be found in the British Museum, located in London, UK.
This woodcut by Dürer depicts the mythical hero Hercules engaged in a fierce battle with the Molionides, who are twins known in Greek mythology. The intensity of the scene is captured in the intricate lines and dramatic composition typical of Dürer’s work. Hercules is shown overpowering the twins, with one already beneath his feet and the other defending himself against Hercules’ attack. The background features a landscape with trees, birds in the sky, and a distant view that might include a river and a settlement, adding depth and context to the violent foreground action. Dürer’s distinctive monogram, “AD,” is prominently placed toward the lower center of the image, indicating his authorship of the work. The woodcut is rich in detail, showcasing Dürer’s skill in conveying textures, from the feathers on the helmets of the Molionides to the muscularity of Hercules, as well as the natural elements within the scene.
