Buckle showing Hercle (Herakles) with Omphale (Queen of Lydia)
Medium:Bronze
Geography: Possibly found in Vulci, Italy
Date: c. 525-500 BC
Period: Etruscan
Object number: 918.3.113
Credit Line: Gift of Mrs. H.D. Warren
DescriptionHerakles, the most popular of the Greek heroes, was known in Etruria as Hercle. He was wholeheartedly adopted by the Etruscans and is frequently seen on engraved mirrors, bronze statuettes, and architectural terracottas. His fabled “labours” were a favourite theme for Etruscan artists. Hercle is usually recognized, as in Greek art, by his lion-skin and club.
