Hercules and the Hydra

Hercules and the Hydra is a c. 1475 mythological painting by Antonio del Pollaiuolo, created using tempera on a small panel of wood. Measuring just 17 cm by 12 cm, this work exemplifies his characteristic early renaissance style, emphasizing dynamic movement and detailed anatomy. It forms a pair with his Hercules Slaying Antaeus. As a quintessential example of early renaissance art, it captures the heroic myth of Hercules battling the multi-headed Hydra, highlighting Pollaiuolo’s mastery of small-scale mythological narratives on wood panels.