Unknown Artist, Italy, 18th century
, Italian
Title
Mars and Venus Discovered by VulcanDatelate 17th century
MediumBoxwood
Dimensions
13.6 x 24 cm
Credit LineMilltown Gift, 1902
Object numberNGI.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)
ProvenanceMilltown Gift, 1902