Neptune in his Chariot 1585 - 1634

This drawing captures Neptune, god of the sea, trident in hand and surrounded by marine life, rendered by Pieter de Jode I. Here, Neptune’s trident signifies his dominion over the seas, recalling Poseidon’s power in ancient Greek mythology. This symbol of control and authority echoes across cultures, resurfacing, for example, in medieval Christian art where tridents appear in depictions of Hell. The motif evolves from a symbol of divine power to one of infernal torment, mirroring humanity's shifting fears and fascinations. This transition reveals how symbols, once revered, can morph under the weight of collective anxieties. The turbulent sea, filled with both mythical creatures and real aquatic life, conveys Neptune's emotional state. This dynamism embodies the untamed aspects of both the natural world and the human psyche. The depiction of Neptune isn't just a representation, but an intense expression of power and elemental energy.