Head of Hercules (Heracles). Roman Empire, 2nd-3rd century A.D.

Head of Hercules (Heracles). Roman Empire, 2nd-3rd century A.D.
Marble.
Provenance European private collection.
Measurements: 13.5 x 10 x 4 cm.

The "Head of Heracles" is a marble sculpture dating from the II-III century A.D., during the height of the Roman Empire. This work represents the mythological hero Heracles (Hercules in the Roman tradition) with his characteristic Nemean lion skin covering his head, symbol of one of his Twelve Labors. The marble, of white tone with yellowish patina, denotes its antiquity, and the fine detail of the features suggests the use of meticulous tools in its elaboration, although the exact technique used is not specified. The face of Heracles presents a realistic treatment, with serene features that evoke his state of apotheosis (divinization), a common element in Roman art that sought to associate mythological heroes with the divine. His wavy hair and thick beard have been delicately worked.

This sculpture refers to his first great feat: the fight against the Lion of Nemea, an invincible creature that spread terror in the Argolid. In defeating him, Herakles took his skin as armor and his head as a helmet, making them emblems of his extraordinary strength and his inaugural triumph among the twelve labors.