Ancient Roman
Head of Mars
Can I see it?
Yes, on view now
Where is “Head of Mars” now? Art Institute of Chicago, Gallery 150, Chicago. Yes, on view now. Checked October 12, 2026.
Chicago, United States
Closed· opens at 11:00 AM
On public display.
- Checked
- In this state since
- Source
- The museum
About the sculpture
Mars, the Roman god of war, was viewed as both a warrior and a guardian of the Roman people. He is identified by his distinctive helmet, which is richly carved with imagery reflecting his martial role. The sides depict griffins, winged beasts associated with his vengeful nature, while the cheek pieces are each adorned with an image of Cupid carrying a spear and shield. Mars had a complicated romantic rela-tionship with Cupid’s mother, Venus, the Roman goddess of love, whose domain also included warfare and military victory.
Art Institute of ChicagoCC BY 4.0
Details
- Accession number
- 1984.1
What it shows
In the catalog
Display history
On view · Gallery 150
Art Institute of Chicago · Sep 28, 2026 — now · Verified
Was on view · Gallery 154
Art Institute of Chicago · Aug 19, 2026 — Sep 28, 2026 · Verified
Sources
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Image: Art Institute of Chicago — CC0
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