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This is a drawing of mythical creatures engaged in a river scene. The image depicts a group of mythological figures that appear to be part human and part aquatic creature, possibly mermen or sirens, in a lively scene near water. Some figures are holding instruments, and there are ornamental aquatic elements like fish scales and a horse-like creature emerging from the water. The detailed artwork suggests an etching or engraving technique, delivering a narrative of mythical origin with complex interactions. The style is reminiscent of the Renaissance period, capturing movement and emotion through detailed line work.
National Gallery of Art · Print
Battle of the Sea Gods [right half]
Andrea Mantegna
- Date
- before 1481
- Medium
- engraving on laid paper
- Dimensions
- sheet: 28.8 x 38.1 cm (11 5/16 x 15 in.)
- Classification
- Accession number
- 1941.1.7
- Credit line
- Gift of W.G. Russell Allen
- Time span
- 1401 to 1500
- Department
- CG-E
Subjects and terms
- Paduan
- engraving
- classical
- mythology
Provenance
W. Bell Scott (1811-1890), Lugt 2607
Watermarks
Cardinal’s Hat. Close to Br. 3404 (Udine 1503)
NGA object ID 585. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.