Venus and Mars Embracing as Vulcan Works at His Forge 1543

This 1543 engraving by Italian artist Enea Vico depicts the Roman myth of Venus and Mars being caught in bed by Vulcan, the god of fire. The scene is set in Vulcan’s workshop with Venus and Mars in the foreground, embraced as Vulcan works in the background at his forge. The intricate details of the engraving showcase Vico's mastery in this technique, evident in the textures of fabric, metal, and skin. The composition draws the viewer's eye to the intimate embrace of Venus and Mars while highlighting Vulcan's powerful and athletic figure. The artwork is now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection in New York.