Mars

Theodor de Bry, after Sebald Beham

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a figure holding a sword and a torch, surrounded by symbolic elements. The central figure, viewed from behind, has curly hair and a cloth draped over the lower body. In one hand, the figure holds a curved sword, and in the other hand, a torch is raised. The background is filled with swirling clouds, and at the top, a scrolling banner with the word "MARS." A star with trailing lines is seen in the upper right. Below the figure, there is a scorpion and a reclining ram surrounded by clouds. The bottom of the drawing features the text "BELLORVM AVTOR." The lines and shading suggest a meticulous technique. The composition and iconography allude to war and strength themes associated with the deity Mars.