18th-19th century AD. A large and very fine cast taken from a neoclassical intaglio signed 'G.G': cast of an oval-shaped intaglio bearing dynamic combat scene of Hercules fighting a centaur brandishing a club, which attacks a young man strewn on the ground (possibly a Lapiths tribesman), the creature held in a headlock by Hercules, a lionskin draped in the tree besides, whilst another has been tossed into the air in the fray; masterful anatomical detailing and muscle definition; accompanied by a museum-quality impression. 21.5 grams, 42mm (1 3/4"). Property of a Cambridgeshire gentleman; acquired from a Sussex lady; acquired from Bertolami Fine Art, action 86, lot 343; accompanied by the lot ticket and a copy of the online catalogue pages. The scene may represent Hercules coming to the aid of the Lapiths in their fight against the centaurs, representing the struggle between civilisation and barbarism, or centaurmachy. [No Reserve]

Very fine condition. Rare.