Mars and Venus Surprised by Vulcan

Joachim Anthonisz. Wtewael

1604–1608

Oil on copper, Oil, Copper

J. Paul Getty Museum

Mars and Venus are depicted in bed, surprised by Vulcan and other figures. The scene includes cherubs and mythological figures in the sky. In the Metamorphoses, the Roman author Ovid tells the story of how the lovers Venus and Mars were surprised by Venus's husband, Vulcan. Vulcan, a blacksmith, forged an invisible bronze net, which he secretly attached to Mars's bed. Here Vulcan stands upon Mars's armor, discarded at the right, while Cupid and Apollo hover above, drawing back the green canopy to reveal the astonished lovers in an embrace. Other gods and goddesses also gather to witness and mock the adulterous couple. In a scene beyond the bed, Vulcan hammers his net at the forge. Exaggerated poses and brilliant, jewel-like color emphasize the dramatic intensity of the