Who painted Mars and Diana [recto]?

Mars and Diana [recto] was painted by Zanguidi, called Bertoia, Jacopo in 1559.

Where can I see Mars and Diana [recto]?

Mars and Diana [recto] is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Mars and Diana [recto]?

Mars and Diana [recto] is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Mars and Diana [recto]?

Museum-quality prints of Mars and Diana [recto] are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Mars and Diana [recto]

Zanguidi, called Bertoia, Jacopo , 1559

Mars and Diana [recto] is a chalk drawing by the Renaissance artist Zanguidi, called Bertoia, Jacopo. It dates from 1559 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Jacopo Zanguidi, known as Bertoia, produced the drawing titled Mars and Diana in 1559.

About this work

Overview

Jacopo Zanguidi, known as Bertoia, produced the drawing titled Mars and Diana in 1559. Executed on paper, the work combines pen work with brown ink and a brown wash applied over a foundation of black chalk, resulting in a monochrome composition that explores a mythological encounter.

Subject & Meaning

The image presents the Roman god of war, Mars, alongside the huntress goddess Diana. Their juxtaposition evokes themes of conflict and chastity, reflecting the Renaissance fascination with classical narratives and the moral contrasts embodied by these deities.

Technique & Style

The artist employs a restrained line economy, using fine pen strokes to delineate the figures while the brown wash adds tonal depth. The underlying black chalk provides a structural sketch, and the overall handling demonstrates a balance between simplicity of form and careful attention to texture and volume.

History & Provenance

Created in the mid‑sixteenth century, the drawing is attributed to Zanguidi’s early period, when he was active in the Veneto region. It remains catalogued as a drawing rather than a painted work, and its provenance traces back to private collections before entering its present institutional setting.