Mars and Venus Surprised by Vulcan
1551
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
About the artist
1551
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Mars and Venus Surprised by Vulcan is a 1551 ink by Georges Reverdy, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
In this engraving, Mars and Venus are depicted in a compromising position on a bed, with Mars leaning over Venus. The scene is set in a dimly lit room with curtains and a bed, and Mars is shown with a surprised expression on his face. Vulcan, the god of fire and the blacksmith of the gods, is shown in the background, holding a net and looking at the couple with a mixture of anger and surprise. The engraving is done in a detailed and intricate style, with cross-hatching used to create depth and texture. This engraving is a great example of Renaissance art, and you can learn more about the movement by exploring the Renaissance.
