Neptune Seated Blowing a Conch Shell 16th century

This anonymous 16th-century engraving, "Neptune Seated Blowing a Conch Shell," showcases the Roman god of the sea in a powerful pose. Neptune, depicted as a muscular, bearded man, sits atop a rocky outcropping, his right hand raised in the air while he blows a conch shell. His left hand rests on a trident, a symbol of his power. The engraving likely depicts the moment Neptune calls forth a storm, as indicated by the swirling waves at the bottom of the composition. The dramatic composition and detailed anatomy of the figures create a powerful image that reflects the awe-inspiring nature of the sea. This etching, now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to the skillful artistry of the anonymous Renaissance master.