Son of Zeus (1864 - Marget)

6 foot x 4 foot - oil on canvas

 

In strong, thick strokes, Marget shows Hercules holding the head of Ladon. The serpent-dragon’s body lies limp in the shadow of an ancient tree. A pool of blood snaking its way to the center of the painting. 

 

Moon and shadow are played dramatically against one another, the sheen of the painting's silver frame adding to the contrast. The frame was a collection of vertical pillars that interlocked and shifted in sync with another. 

 

After many attempts to manipulate the pillars in different combinations, I was satisfied there was nothing to be gained from the effort.