Hercules and Omphale
David Humbert de Superville created this striking neoclassical study, likely copying an ancient carnelian gemstone as indicated by the Dutch inscription 'grootte der cornalijn' at the bottom. The scene depicts the legendary Hercules, seated and powerfully muscled, reaching out to touch the chin of Queen Omphale. In Greek myth, Hercules actually served Omphale as a slave and even wore her clothes, but here he looks every bit the hero, creating a fascinating contrast between the submissive legend and this dominant portrayal. The oval framing gives it the look of a medallion, freezing a moment of mythological drama in monochrome.
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