Body of Power - The Mars by Giambologna (Stephan Koja)

One of the most outstanding male nudes from the Mannerist period  Giambolognas bronze statuette Mars (ca. 1570) is among the most impressive depictions of the god of war. It unites ancient ideals with artistic innovation. This symbol of sovereignty is masterfully realized in the powerful appearance of the statuette.

Giambologna's Mars is the artist's only known gift to a prince. Symbolically, he stands between war and peace, destruction and renewal. Why the artist depicted the god of war not in full armor, but rather nude, is one of many intriguing questions the book explores. Starting with Mars as the central figure, the volume illuminates Giambolognas uvre and artistic milieu, whose creations had a lasting influence on late Renaissance art.ARTISTS: GIAMBOLOGNA, ANTONIO SUSINI, GIOVANNI FRANCESCO SUSINI, PIETRO TACCA, ADRIAEN DE VRIES