Minerva 1754 - 1809

This red chalk drawing, "Minerva," depicts the Roman goddess of wisdom and war in a powerful pose. Created by Izaak Jansz. de Wit between 1754 and 1809, the work shows Minerva in full armor, holding a shield emblazoned with the Roman inscription "SPQR" (Senatus Populusque Romanus - The Senate and People of Rome). This detailed and expressive sketch showcases de Wit's mastery of line and composition. It is now part of the collection of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.