Neptune and Amphitrite c. 1594

Editor: Hendrick Goltzius's engraving, *Neptune and Amphitrite*, from around 1594, presents a classic mythological scene. There’s a certain playful, almost sensual, energy in their pose. What's your take? What stands out to you about this print? Curator: It’s the sensuality, exactly! Goltzius was a master of the Mannerist style, and it's plain to see. Look at the way their bodies intertwine – the almost exaggerated musculature, the carefully placed hands. I’m immediately drawn to the contrasts, like the sea god standing so firm with his trident against Amphitrite almost melting into him. And then, that lovely octopus that seems to be an arm rest, just casually draping itself around Neptune. What do you think about their eyes gazing at one another? What kind of mood do you feel radiating between the couple? Editor: It’s like they're caught in a private moment, despite being so grandly presented. They look like a couple that really are enamored with one another. You also pointed out his build, which now that I'm looking feels a little exaggerated – very stylized. And it looks like their hair blends together to a certain extent? Curator: Precisely! That interwoven quality is what Mannerism’s all about—that stylish distortion and a heightening of emotional tension through the figures' relationship to one another. You see the dolphin under her - its almost like this couple are sitting atop the waves themselves. This artist had a flare for the dramatic, didn’t he? Editor: Absolutely! It's amazing to see how he conveyed so much intimacy within this grand, almost theatrical, scene. I think I better understand what Mannerism actually means. Curator: And there’s so much more. Let your imagination swim in those waters! Goltzius' vision might give new depth and perspective to how we imagine love.