Hercules and Antaeus (with a Base Below) 1771 - 1800

Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo made this pen and wash drawing of Hercules and Antaeus. The image depicts a scene from classical mythology, where Hercules defeats Antaeus by lifting him off the ground, thus depriving him of his strength. Made in Venice, this drawing speaks to the enduring appeal of classical themes in 18th-century European art. But it goes further than that, reflecting the period’s fascination with the male nude and the heroic. Tiepolo presents us with a dynamic composition full of tension and drama. The exaggerated musculature, the contorted poses, and the contrast between light and shadow heighten the emotional intensity of the scene. Understanding this work requires looking into the visual culture of 18th-century Venice. It also necessitates considering the role of the Academy in shaping artistic taste and the impact of patronage on artistic production. By consulting historical sources such as period treatises, biographies, and exhibition catalogs, we can gain a deeper appreciation. In doing so we reflect on the social and institutional contexts that shaped its creation and reception.