The young god is shown struggling with the serpent which his jealous stepmother, Juno, put into his cradle, in an unsuccessful effort to kill him, height 34.3cm, width 46cm, depth 21.5cm.
It was part of the collection of the eminent English scientist, Dr. Richard Mead (1673-1753), the physician of George II and author of a successful book on poisons. He collected many works of art, both ancient and modern, in Italy and in England. The 9th Earl of Exeter purchased this Algardi bronze at the sale of the Mead collection in 1755.
1763 Inventory: “the dining room, 4 George room……1 Do. (mahogany fluted stand) Boy Hercules Black. by Algardi”
