Vik Muniz São Paulo, Brazil, b. 1961
Further images
Vik Muniz's Hercules and Omphale from his Pictures of Junk series is an appropriation of the 1724 painting by François Lemoyne.
The myth of Hercules and Omphale comes from ancient Greek mythology, telling the story of Hercules, the mighty demigod and strongest man on earth, and Omphale, the queen of Lydia. According to the legend, after completing the twelve labors, Hercules is commanded to serve Omphale, taking on a subordinate role, often depicted with a gender-reversed dynamic.
This tale has been a popular subject in art throughout history, appearing in paintings, sculptures, and ceramics, and remains one of the most enduring themes in classical art and culture.
François Lemoyne’s Hercules and Omphale is part of the collection at the Louvre Museum in Paris, France.