Paolo de Matteis, The Choice of Hercules, 1712

The Choice of Hercules between the hedonistic life exemplified by Pleasure, or Vice (on the right), and the rocky path of Virtue (left) was a frequent motif in paintings, drawings and prints. In this painting by Paolo de Matteis and commissioned by Anthony Ashley Cooper, third Early of Shaftesbury (1671–1713), Hercules' difficulty of choosing the right path is expressed in the design of the composition. By depicting the frontal, central, standing body of the young hero slightly twisted in contrapposto pose, leaning on his club towards Pleasure but at the same time looking to his right towards Virtue, his indecision is hinted at.

The Choice of Hercules, oil on canvas, 198.2 cm x 256.5 cm, 1712, artist: Paolo de Matteis; source: image © Ashmolean Museum, University of Oxford, https://collections.ashmolean.org/object/373203.