This is a copy of Batoni’s painting from 1750, showing Vulcan, the God of Fire, in his forge. Ramsay’s drawing resembles the canvas in every detail, and is an assured exercise in tonal control. Ramsay’s acquaintance with Pompeo Batoni was renewed on his second visit to Italy in 1754–57. Although Ramsay’s style at this time was moving away from the Baroque manner towards a refined French style, the two artists remained in close contact during this and subsequent visits. An inscription on the verso tells us that this drawing was made in Rome, probably in Batoni’s house, on 21st August 1755.