Artwork
Girdle of Ares

Girdle of Ares is an oil painting by the Symbolist artist Arthur B. Davies. It dates from 1908 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
Together, the imagery conveys themes of war, violence, and the potent symbolism of martial regalia.
The painting portrays Ares, the Greek god of war, locked in combat with a male figure, as indicated by the Wikidata entry noting that the work depicts Ares, battle, and a man. The title, Girdle of Ares, references the divine belt traditionally associated with the god’s martial authority, suggesting that the girdle functions as a symbol of his power and the binding force of conflict. Together, the imagery conveys themes of war, violence, and the potent symbolism of martial regalia.
Technique & Style
Created in 1908 by Arthur Bowen Davies, Girdle of Ares is an oil painting executed on canvas. The work measures 66 units in height and 101.9 units in width. Classified as a painting, the piece depicts mythological and martial subjects, specifically featuring the figure of Ares alongside scenes of battle and male figures.
The medium of oil paint on canvas supports the formal qualities associated with Davies' style during this period. The artwork is currently held within the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Its creation predates its inclusion in the exhibition history of The Eight, marking it as a significant example of Davies' output from the early 20th century.
History & Provenance
Girdle of Ares is an oil on canvas painting executed in 1908 by Arthur Bowen Davies. The work, catalogued as a painting, was first presented as part of the group show known as The Eight. Following its creation, the painting entered the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it has been housed continuously since acquisition.
Its dimensions measure 66 × 101.9 cm, and it depicts the mythological figure Ares in a battle scene. The piece remains on view at the museum, forming part of its permanent holdings.
Arthur Bowen Davies's 1908 oil painting, Girdle of Ares, is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The work, which depicts a battle scene featuring the god Ares, measures 66 by 101.9 centimeters. Historical records indicate that the painting was included in the exhibition history of The Eight, a notable group of American artists.
While the specific accession number is not detailed in the available references, the piece remains a classified painting within the museum's holdings.
Overview
Arthur Bowen Davies created Girdle of Ares in 1908, an oil painting that exemplifies his engagement with Symbolist themes. This work portrays the Greek god Ares within a tumultuous battle, emphasizing a central male figure. The painting is recognized for its allegorical depth and dramatic composition, and it is housed in the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Arthur Bowen Davies (September 26, 1862 – October 24, 1928) was an avant-garde American artist and influential advocate of modern art in the United States c. 1910–1928.


















