3-029-730 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Hercules and Iole, 1710-1725. The subject tells a story of the ancient Greek hero Hercules (or Heracles). Hercules was sold to Omphale, Queen of Lydia. He became her lover and whilst in her service started to display feminine traits, wearing women's dress and spinning. The sculpture depicts Omphale with her arm around Hercules, she wears his lion skin. The arms of Hercules, and one of Omphale's arms are now missing so we can no longer be sure what they held in their hands. In the traditional depiction she is shown holding his club, whilst he holds a spindle. This subject appealed to Renaissance and Baroque artists as it could be used to explore the theme of woman's domination over man.