In Mercury Killing Argus, Jacob Jordaens presents a dramatic scene filled with vibrant colors. The painting features Mercury, the messenger god, in the act of killing Argus, who is depicted with many eyes. The setting is dynamic, with swirling drapery and expressive gestures that enhance the tension of the moment.

The use of light and shadow adds depth, highlighting the figures against a dark background. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, a common medium for Baroque artists, allowing for rich color and texture. Jordaens employs a strong contrast between light and dark, known as chiaroscuro, to emphasize the figures and their expressions. The composition is carefully arranged, guiding the viewer's eye through the action.

The approximate dimensions of the work are 150 x 200 cm, making it a substantial piece. Jacob Jordaens was a prominent Flemish painter of the Baroque period, known for his lively and colorful works. This painting illustrates a myth from Ovid's Metamorphoses, where Mercury kills Argus to rescue Io. An interesting fact about this work is that Jordaens often collaborated with other artists, and his style reflects a blend of influences from Rubens and the Italian masters.

The painting is currently housed in the Museo del Prado.