The Sutton Place Herakles
Late Hellenistic Period, c.100-30 BC
A rediscovered masterpiece of Greek Hellenistic art, previously owned by two of the wealthiest men who ever lived.
Purchased at auction as a 19th century copy, this bust depicts one of the most iconic figures of the ancient world – Herakles, dressed in the skin of the freshly slain Nemean lion. Extensive research by ArtAncient not only confirmed its authenticity, but also uncovered an illustrious provenance, dating back to two of the greatest art collections ever formed – that of J. Paul Getty and the Dukes of Sutherland.
Now in the collection of the Zayed National Museum.