Hercules the Archer

Hercules the Archer is a bronze sculpture located at the Metropolitan Museum of Art that depicts a classical hero in a dynamic pose. The work shows him with his bow drawn, ready for action in a dramatic moment from ancient mythology.

A French sculptor created this work in 1909 as a commissioned piece, and it was first displayed at a national art exhibition. This creation emerged during a period when classical ancient themes were widespread in European sculpture.

The statue shows Hercules at a moment from Greek mythology that many visitors recognize from ancient stories. The muscular figure with the bow speaks to a broader interest in classical hero figures.

The work is located in a dedicated gallery of the museum and is accessible to visitors during regular opening hours. It is helpful to consult the museum map or join a guided tour to find this location easily.

Someone from the artist's personal circle served as the model for this depiction, lending the figure its distinctive appearance. Using a living model instead of a purely historical or literary interpretation gives the work a personal quality.

Location: New York City

Inception: 1909

Creator: Antoine Bourdelle

Made from material: bronze

GPS coordinates: 40.77940,-73.96318

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:41