Neptune Plotting the Destruction of Man

Workshop of Hendrick Goltzius, after Hendrick Goltzius

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of mythological figures interacting with water in a natural landscape. In the foreground, several muscular figures are engaged in the task of channeling and pouring water from large urns or vessels. The scene is dynamic, with a variety of poses and flowing lines. In the background, mountainous terrain is visible with a waterfall. A figure in the upper-right stands on a wave or spout of water, holding a trident. The figures and landscape are detailed with intricate linework, and the sky features wispy clouds.