Statue of Hercules with his son Telephus

A group larger than life, after the style of the well known statue in the Vatican Museum. He carries the lion's skin on which is seated his infant son Telephus, whose mother Auge, a priestess of Minerva, had dared to conceal him in the sanctuary of the goddess. Supporting the infant with his left arm which is covered with the lion's skin, he holds his club in the right, lifting his gaze towards the left as if openly defying the vengeance of Minerva. Crouching near the club is the hind by whom Telephus was suckled, intently gazing at him. This group is more remarkable for its beautiful design than for its execution, yet the skilful manner in which the lion's skin with its varied folds has been executed is worthy of note. The composition is very effective, and is evidently copied from some famous original.

Inv. nr. 388. H. 2.22.