Artwork
Battle of the Sea Gods [right half]
![Battle of the Sea Gods [right half], by Andrea Mantegna, ink, 1481](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/andrea-mantegna--battle-of-the-sea-gods-right-half--7515c85934d3d1e9-w1024.webp)
Battle of the Sea Gods [right half] is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Andrea Mantegna. It dates from 1481 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This print, 'Battle of the Sea Gods [right half]', is an engraving on laid paper created by Andrea Mantegna in 1481. It showcases the artist's technical skill and innovative approach to classical themes.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts a chaotic underwater battle between nude male figures, with intense physical interactions and waves surrounding them. One figure uses a fish as a shield, adding to the scene's turmoil.
Technique & Style
Mantegna achieved a sense of solidity in the figures through the use of closely spaced, thin lines that build up dark areas. This technique, characteristic of engraving, allows for detailed and textured representations.
Context
The print reflects the Italian Renaissance fascination with classical subjects and demonstrates Mantegna's interest in archaeological themes and sculptural form. It is part of a broader tradition of history painting and contributed to the thriving print culture in Venice.
Artist & collection
Artist
Andrea Mantegna (UK: , US: ; Italian: ; c. 1431 – September 13, 1506) was an Italian Renaissance painter, a student of Roman archaeology, and the son-in-law of Jacopo Bellini. Like other artists of the time, Mantegna…









![Battle of the Sea Gods [left half], by Andrea Mantegna](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/andrea-mantegna--battle-of-the-sea-gods-left-half--084dd803fb0016b2-w320.webp)

![Battle of the Sea Gods [left half], by Andrea Mantegna](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/andrea-mantegna--battle-of-the-sea-gods-left-half--2510247af42f8c24-w320.webp)


