Body of Power

Illuminates Giambologna's oeuvre and artistic milieu, whose creations had a lasting influence on late Renaissance art. One of the most extraordinary male nudes from the Mannerist period, Giambologna's bronze statuette Mars (ca. 1574) 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. Symbolically, Giambologna's Mars 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 the exciting questions the book explores. This volume also includes works by Antonio Susini, Giovanni Francesco Susini, Pietro Tacca, and Adrian de Fries.