Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Royalty
Oedipus and the Sphinx, 1880. Artist: Antique
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Oedipus and the Sphinx, 1880. Artist: Antique
Oedipus and the Sphinx, 1880. Oedipus was a mythical Greek king of Thebes. Oedipus meetd the Sphinx at the crossroads on his journey between Thebes and Delphi and must answer the Sphinxs riddle in order to pass. Failure means his own death and that of the besieged Thebans. The riddle was: What walks on four feet in the morning, two in the afternoon and three at night?. From Stories from the Greek Tragedies by the Rev. Alfred J. Church, M.A. [Seeley, Jackson, & Halliday, London, 1880]
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14987526
© The Print Collector
Alfred J Black Background Challenge Classical Half Beast Half Man Halliday His Majesty Jackson Halliday Mythical Figure Oedipus Question Rev Alfred J Church Riddle Robert Benton Seeley Seeley Spear Sphinx Stories From The Greek Tragedies Story Thebes Tragedy Traveller Winged Greek Mythology
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Reptiles
> Snakes
> King Brown
> Arts
> Artists
> D
> Alfred
> Related Images
> Arts
> Artists
> Related Images
> Arts
> Literature
> Books
> Arts
> Literature
> Arts
> Portraits
> Classical portrait gallery
> Portrait art
> Europe
> Greece
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Royalty
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print depicts the iconic encounter between Oedipus, the mythical Greek king of Thebes, and the enigmatic Sphinx. Created in 1880 by an unknown artist, this piece beautifully captures the essence of this ancient tale. Oedipus stands tall and resolute, a symbol of strength and determination in the face of adversity. The scene takes place at a crossroads on Oedipus' journey from Thebes to Delphi. Here, he must confront the Sphinx's riddle - a question that holds not only his own fate but also that of his besieged city. The riddle itself is famously known: "What walks on four feet in the morning, two in the afternoon and three at night?". Failure to answer correctly would result in death for both Oedipus and his fellow Thebans. In this image, we witness Oedipus contemplating his response with intensity etched upon his face. His royal attire reflects his status as a monarch while holding a spear signifies both war and protection. Against a striking black background, every detail is highlighted with precision. This print serves as a visual representation of one of Greek mythology's most enduring stories - full of tragedy, challenge, and profound meaning. It transports us back to ancient times when gods ruled over mortals and heroes faced impossible trials. A true testament to artistic skill and storytelling prowess, this antique print invites us into an age-old narrative that continues to captivate audiences today.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
