“This dramatic print brings to life the mythical Irish giant Finn MacCool, showcasing a powerful figure rendered with striking detail and a rich interplay of printmaking techniques. It's a captivating blend of myth and artistic innovation.”
A powerful, almost monstrous figure dominates this print, his body a mass of dense musculature and swirling fabric. This is Finn MacCool, the legendary Irish giant, depicted by Richard Hamilton as part of his series "Imaging Ulysses." The scene captures a moment of intense physical presence, with Finn's form seeming to burst from the frame. His face, though partially obscured, conveys a sense of raw, ancient power, a connection to the wild, untamed landscapes of myth. The artist masterfully combines different printmaking techniques, like heliogravure and aquatint, to create a rich tapestry of textures, from the deep shadows that define Finn's bulk to the subtle highlights on his skin and clothing. This blend of techniques gives the image a tactile quality, inviting the viewer to consider the interplay of light and dark that shapes the colossal figure.
- Artist
- Richard Hamilton
- Date
- 1983
- Medium
- Heliogravure, lift-ground and spit-bite aquatint, engraving and burnishing on white wove paper
- Location
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Dimensions
- Image/plate: 53.5 × 40 cm (21 1/8 × 15 3/4 in.); Sheet: 76 × 56.5 cm (29 15/16 × 22 1/4 in.)
What to Notice
Four details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.

Observe the intricate lines defining Finn's powerful muscles.
Notice the swirling, almost liquid quality of the fabric around him.
Look closely at the varied textures created by different printmaking methods.
See how deep shadows define the giant's form and create drama.
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