The Forge of Vulcan 1630

"The Forge of Vulcan" (1630) by Diego Velázquez portrays the Roman god Vulcan, the god of fire and metalworking, in his forge. Depicted in a radiant light, he is surrounded by his assistants, who are hard at work crafting armor and other tools. Velázquez's use of chiaroscuro, a technique that emphasizes dramatic contrasts of light and shadow, creates a sense of depth and volume within the scene. The painting, now housed in the Museo del Prado in Madrid, is a prime example of Velázquez's mastery of realism and his ability to capture the human form with incredible detail.