“The Forge of Vulcan” by John Singleton Copley, created in 1754, is an oil-on-canvas painting emblematic of the Neoclassicism art movement. Measuring 76.2 by 63.5 cm, this mythological painting is part of a private collection.
The artwork presents a vibrant and elaborate mythological scene involving several classical figures. Central to the composition is Vulcan, the Roman god of fire and metalworking, depicted as an elderly man on the left side, engrossed in his labor at the forge. To his right, a woman, possibly Venus, reclines gracefully on a draped blue fabric, holding arrows, signifying her involvement in forging. Two cherubic figures and another armored figure, presumably Mars, the god of war, accentuate the mythological narrative with their dynamic poses and expressions. The intricate detailing of the characters’ garments, the elaborate armory, and the varied emotive expressions exemplify Copley’s prowess in capturing mythological grandeur.
