Vulcan's Net 1842

Curator: This is Honoré Daumier’s lithograph, "Vulcan's Net," housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's remarkable how Daumier captures the messy reality of relationships. The scene feels almost voyeuristic. Curator: Daumier frequently used classical mythology to critique contemporary French society. Here, we see Vulcan trapping his wife Venus and Mars in a net for their adultery. The hammer to the left is Vulcan’s and signifies his social position as the blacksmith. Editor: The net itself becomes a powerful symbol. It represents not just physical entrapment, but also the social constraints imposed upon women and the ridicule they face. The classical setting seems to mock modern norms. Curator: Absolutely, the setting adds a layer of timelessness to the critique, showing how societal issues persist across eras. It’s a shame that Daumier’s political convictions led to imprisonment, even though his art provided crucial social commentary. Editor: Seeing the enduring resonance of symbols like the net makes one consider how we ourselves participate in upholding cultural memory.