Circle of Jean Francois Lagrenee (French, 1725-1805), monumental 18th century oil on canvas mythological painting titled Hercules Going to War, depicting the Roman god departing a marble portico with club in hand and cherub at his side, leaving behind three women (one likely Minerva) and a child. Sight: 93" H x 61 1/2" W. Frame: 99 1/2" H x 67 3/4" W. Note: this painting bears an old plaque attributing it to German painter Anton Raphael Mengs (1728-1779), however, we believe the theme and style are more closely related to that of Jean Francois Lagrenee. Provenance: the estate of David Caldwell, Nashville, Tennessee. This painting, and its companion in the next lot, depicting Hercules Returning from War, have been a focal point of two important Belle Meade mansions in Nashville. Most recently the centerpieces of David and Yvonne Caldwell's home, they were acquired approximately 30 years ago from James Fowler Sr. of Nashville. Fowler acquired the paintings more than 20 years before that time, when he purchased his own mansion in Belle Meade, formerly owned by Mrs. Sally Smith.

Relined, restored and revarnished approximately 60 years ago; craquelure and scattered inpainting throughout. Several repairs in the entablature area: 2" repair at cornice, 2" repair on upper column; 2" repair or area of overpaint to side along upper left edge of painting. Scattered areas of inpainting to sky up to 12"W (refer to blacklight photo). 2" repair to Hercules' bicep; scattered small spots of inpainting to Hercules' nose area. 2" area of inpainting and a 1/8" flake to Hercules' black robe. Other scattered spots of inpainting and restoration, refer to blacklight photo.