Mars 1591 - 1596

Hendrick Goltzius's "Mars" (1591-1596) is a captivating pen and brown ink drawing that portrays the Roman god of war in a dramatic and powerful manner. The nude figure of Mars stands tall on a pedestal, his muscular form accentuated by his flowing cloak and the surrounding battle scene. The inclusion of soldiers, flags, and a ram in the sky suggest a violent and chaotic scene, contrasting with the calm and contemplative pose of Mars. This artwork, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, showcases Goltzius's mastery of detail and his ability to evoke powerful emotions in the viewer. The drawing's intimate scale, measuring 238 mm in height and 176 mm in width, draws the viewer into the scene, creating an immersive experience.