Body of Power

One of the most extraordinary male nudes of Mannerism, Giambologna's bronze statuette of Mars (c. 1574) is among the most impressive depictions of the god of war. It combines ancient ideals with artistic innovation. This symbol of sovereignty is masterfully realized in the statuette's monumental and powerful appearance.

Giambologna's Mars is the only known gift the artist gave to a prince. Symbolically, he stands between war and peace, destruction and renewal. Why the gift to the prince depicts the god of war not in full armor, but in a nude form, is one of the fascinating questions explored in the book. Starting with Mars as the central figure, the volume illuminates Giambologna's oeuvre and artistic environment, whose creations had a lasting impact on late Renaissance art. ARTISTS: GIAMBOLOGNA, ANTONIO SUSINI, GIOVANNI FRANCESCO SUSINI, PIETRO TACCA, ADRIAEN DE VRIES