This is a 3D model of a 16th c. sculpture by Giambologna in the Piazza della Signoria, Florence. The sculpture depicts Hercules fighting Nessus. Created in 1599, it is an example of the Mannerist style, which emphasises overall beauty, rather than conveying emotion. According to mythology, after attacking Hercules’ wife, a dying Nessus tricked her to put Nessus’ blood on a cloak and gave it to Hercules. But because Nessus’ blood was mixed with the Hydra’s, the cloak actually killed Hercules.

Bibliography: TutteArte 2015

Ancient World 3D

This model posting is part of Ancient World 3D, a project that provides curated 3D open access content for Classical Studies. Each model has an etched catalog# and 3D Printable frame for building a library. The original model was posted by Scan The World. This entry was composed by Serena Hawkins (Dr. Elizabeth Thill, advisor).