Two trophy groups are situated above the triangular pediment on the south side of the Zeughaus. These figures are known as the Bellona and Mars groups. They crown the building’s main façade and are aligned with the boulevard Unter den Linden. On the left the Roman goddess of war, Bellona, is represented. She is shown victorious and ready for battle. She sits with drawn sword and raised fist on a pile of war trophies, and in front of a fan of captured flags. Her foot rests on the armour of a fallen soldier; two captives bound with heavy chains shrink before her. Bellona's gaze is directed to the corresponding group of figures that include the Roman god of war, Mars.
The Mars group is Bellona’s counterpart on the righthand side of the pediment. Here the god of war forms the centre of the scene. With his sword drawn, he looks triumphantly across at Bellona. Like her, he is also surrounded by booty and captives. Mars leans on a shield displaying the Prussian eagle.
Both groups of sculptures were intended to be seen from afar and to proclaim the military readiness of the Kingdom of Prussia. Signalling one’s ability to take military action was of great importance in the early modern period, which was characterised by many armed conflicts.
