Home > Arts > Realistic drawings > Pencil drawings > Sketches
Hercules at the crossroads, 1677-1755. Creator: Elias van Nijmegen
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Hercules at the crossroads, 1677-1755. Creator: Elias van Nijmegen
Hercules at the crossroads, 1677-1755. Design for a painting
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 36332011
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
1670s 1680s 1690s 1700s 1710s 1720s 1730s 1740s 1750s Allegorical Choice Conflict Crossroads Deciding Decision Elias Van Nijmegen Elias Van Nymegen Elias Van Nymeguen Heracles Herakles Hercules Nijmegen Elias Van Nymegen Elias Van Nymeguen Elias Van Studies Thoroughfare Vice Virtue Watercolor Paint Allegorical Figure Greek Mythology
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Watercolor paintings
> Fine art
> Arts
> Realistic drawings
> Figure drawing
> Fine art portraits
> Arts
> Realistic drawings
> Pencil drawings
> Fine art
> Arts
> Realistic drawings
> Pencil drawings
> Sketches
> Europe
> Greece
> Related Images
> Historic
> Ancient civilizations
> Ancient Greece
> Greek history
> Historic
> Ancient civilizations
> Ancient Greece
> Greek mythology
EDITORS COMMENTS
Hercules at the Crossroads," a captivating design for a painting by Elias van Nijmegen (1677-1755), offers an intriguing glimpse into the artistic sensibilities of the 17th and 18th centuries. This allegorical work, created between the late 1600s and mid-1700s, depicts the legendary Greek hero Hercules (also known as Heracles or Herakles) standing at a crossroads, contemplating his choices. The scene is set against a backdrop of a serene landscape, with a thoroughfare stretching out before the hero. Hercules, portrayed as a powerful and muscular man, is dressed in a tunic and clutching a club in one hand and a lion's pelt in the other. He gazes intently at the two women who represent the opposing forces of Vice and Virtue, each trying to sway him in their direction. The allegorical figure of Vice is depicted as an alluring woman, dressed in rich, seductive clothing and holding a mirror, reflecting the vanities and temptations of the world. In contrast, Virtue is shown as a modest and virtuous woman, dressed in simple clothing and holding a palm branch, symbolizing the rewards of a virtuous life. This drawing, executed in ink, pencil, watercolor paint, and color, is a testament to Van Nijmegen's artistic skill and mastery of various mediums. The intricate details and subtle color palette add depth and dimension to the scene, making it a fascinating study of human conflict and decision-making. This design for a painting is a valuable addition to the artistic heritage of the Rijksmuseum and a reminder of the enduring influence of Greek mythology on European art. Whether viewed as a standalone work or as a study for a larger painting, "Hercules at the Crossroads" is a captivating and thought-provoking piece that continues to inspire and intrigue art lovers and scholars alike.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
