Vulkan überrascht Venus und Mars 

Victor Müller created this pencil drawing entitled 'Vulkan überrascht Venus und Mars,' or Vulcan Surprising Venus and Mars, at an unknown date. This piece depicts the Roman gods Venus, Mars, and Vulcan in a rather compromising position. The story, drawn from classical mythology, is one of adultery and cuckoldry. Venus, the goddess of love, is caught in bed with Mars, the god of war, by her husband Vulcan, god of the forge. Müller seems to be interested in the drama of the story, as well as the opportunity to depict the nude form. This particular scene was popular during the 19th century, where new artistic freedoms were being explored, and interest in the nude was being revived. As art historians, we should ask what this image is saying about the social norms of the time. Is it a commentary on marriage, fidelity, or the power dynamics between men and women? We can use historical texts, literature, and social studies to better understand the cultural context of this artwork and its potential meanings.