Mars og Bellona 16th century

Bartholomeus Spranger's "Mars og Bellona" is a 16th-century drawing depicting the Roman gods of war, Mars and Bellona. The work showcases Spranger's mastery of detailed figural drawing. The two figures stand amidst a variety of weapons and artillery, including a cannon, cannonballs, and a spear. Mars holds a cannonball aloft while Bellona stands firmly, ready for battle. The work’s composition is both dynamic and symbolic, highlighting the destructive power of war. The artwork, which is housed in the SMK - Statens Museum for Kunst, exemplifies Spranger's contribution to Mannerist art in the late 16th century.