Mars met sterrenbeelden Ram en Schorpioen 1539

Sebald Beham's "Mars met sterrenbeelden Ram en Schorpioen" (Mars with the constellations Aries and Scorpio) is a small, detailed engraving created in 1539. This print depicts the Roman god of war, Mars, standing over a ram, the symbol of the constellation Aries, with a scorpion, the symbol of Scorpio, at his feet. The engraving showcases Beham's meticulous style and his interest in both classical mythology and astronomical imagery. Its small size belies its complexity, with intricate details in the figures' armor, weapons, and the celestial bodies surrounding Mars. This artwork is a prime example of Beham's contribution to the flourishing of Renaissance printmaking.