The blacksmith’s forge has long been a recurring and much-appreciated motif in European painting. The glow of fire, the physical labor, and the atmosphere of the enclosed workshop have offered artists rich opportunities for both studies of light and narrative content. This thematic collection presents a broad selection of paintings from the 17th to the 20th century, all centered on the forge as their primary setting.

The selection includes works by Nordic artists such as Anders Montan and Alf Wallander, alongside international names like William Barr. It also encompasses works after earlier models, including Pieter van Bloemen and Joseph Wright of Derby, lending the theme strong art-historical grounding and a varied range of expression. Together, the works form a cohesive and evocative whole in which craftsmanship, tradition, and painterly quality take center stage.