The Forge of Vulcan 1546

"The Forge of Vulcan" is a 1546 engraving by Cornelis Bos depicting the Roman god Vulcan working in his forge with his helpers. The scene depicts Vulcan, the god of fire and metalworking, seated on a stool, while two other figures hammer away at a piece of metal. A fourth figure, possibly Venus, looks on while Cupid attempts to distract her with a small bow and arrow. This artwork exemplifies the popular themes of mythology and craftsmanship in 16th-century Northern Europe. The detailed rendering of the figures and tools showcases Bos's masterful skill in engraving, contributing to the visual richness of the scene. "The Forge of Vulcan" is housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City.