Leonhard Kern (Forchtenberg 1588-1662 Schwäbisch Hall), Hercules and Hippolyta, Circa 1615-20. Alabaster. Height 82 cm (32.2 in.) © Blumka Gallery

In this work Kern depicts one of the 'Twelve Labors of Hercules', specifically the stealing of the Amazonian Queen, Hippolyta's belt, which protects her from harm. The struggle between Hercules and Hippolyta results in Amazon Queen's death. The figures' twisting forms are reminiscent of Giambologna's 'Rape of the Sabines' from 1580-81. It is possible Kern's sculpture was commissioned in Heidelberg, where he lived from 1614 until 1617, by Elector Palatine Frederick V as an allegorical figure of a ruler. 

Provenance: Probably Elector Friedrich V of the Palatinate; Collection Prof. René Clemencic, Vienna

Literature: René Clemencic (Hg.), Wandlung - Ereignis Skulptur. Die Sammlung Clemencic, exh. cat. Österreichische Galerie Belvedere, Hohenems 2003. S. 273, Abb. no. 45

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