Finn MacCool, from Imaging Ulysses

Richard Hamilton, 1983

MEDIUMHeliogravure, lift-ground and spit-bite aquatint, engraving and burnishing on white wove paper
DIMENSIONSImage/plate: 53.5 × 40 cm (21 1/8 × 15 3/4 in.); Sheet: 76 × 56.5 cm (29 15/16 × 22 1/4 in.)
LOCATIONArt Institute of Chicago

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.

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ABOUT THIS WORK

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.

LOOK CLOSER

What to Notice

1

Observe the intricate lines defining Finn's powerful muscles.

2

Notice the swirling, almost liquid quality of the fabric around him.

3

Look closely at the varied textures created by different printmaking methods.

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Audio Deep Dive

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 pr…

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THE ARTIST
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Richard Hamilton
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