Why it matters
Hercules is pulled between Virtue and Vice; Virtue seems to be winning, but Vice has torn his stocking and hides a dagger behind her skirt. An inscription reads: 'Honour and Virtue flourish after death'.
Did you know?
- It was painted around 1565 in Venice.
- It is believed to be Veronese's first allegory, with Wisdom and Strength.
- The two paintings have always travelled together; both are in the Frick Collection.
Based on the Wikipedia article Allegory of Virtue and Vice (Veronese) (CC BY-SA 4.0).
