Mars Presiding Over the Arts of War

Jan Pietersz Saenredam, after Hendrick Goltzius

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of soldiers around a large statue of a warrior. The soldiers are gathered around the base of the statue, some playing drums and organizing their equipment. The statue depicts a muscular, helmeted warrior holding a spear. Other soldiers in the background hold spears and flags. Two symbols, an Aries and a Scorpio, are depicted hovering in the sky. The soldiers are dressed in historical battle attire, including plumed helmets. The drawing includes intricate shading and detailed line work that give the piece depth and convey a narrative of military readiness and valor.