Unknown Artist, Italy, 18th century, Italian
Title: Mars and Venus Discovered by Vulcan
Date: late 17th century
Medium: Boxwood
Dimensions:
13.6 x 24 cm
Credit Line: Milltown Gift, 1902
Object Number: NGI.8213
DescriptionThis small carved bas-relief is one of a pair of mythological scenes, probably acquired by the 2nd Earl of Milltown during one of his numerous Grand Tours around Europe. The incident shown here represents the embarrassing episode of Venus and Mars surprised during their lovemaking. According to legend, Venus was forced by Jupiter to marry the unattractive Vulcan, but the goddess, repelled by her deformed husband, soon started to betray him with other gods. One day, while she was lying with Mars, the sun (Apollo) revealed the adulterous relationship with his rays. Enraged by the discovery, Vulcan imprisoned the two lovers with a metal net that he appositely forged, thus exposing the lovers to the laughter of the other gods on Mount Olympus.
A tradition of fine carving in every sort of wood had existed in Germany and Austria since the Middle Ages. This skill is well displayed in this remarkable work, which is executed in boxwood, one of the hardest woods that exists.
(National Gallery of Ireland: Essential Guide, 2008)
A tradition of fine carving in every sort of wood had existed in Germany and Austria since the Middle Ages. This skill is well displayed in this remarkable work, which is executed in boxwood, one of the hardest woods that exists.
(National Gallery of Ireland: Essential Guide, 2008)
ProvenanceMilltown Gift, 1902