In Hesiod’s creation story, Hephaestus fashioned Pandora’s physical form from earth. Zeus ordered the creation of the first woman as part of his punishment of humanity after Prometheus gave people fire.
Hephaestus was the Olympian smith and craftsman, so his role fits the myth’s emphasis on divine workmanship. Hesiod describes him shaping the woman from earth, while other gods contribute qualities, clothing, ornaments, or behavior. Pandora’s name means “all-gifted” or “all-giving,” referring to the gifts supplied by the gods.
This detail is sometimes confused with the gods who gave Pandora particular attributes. Athena is associated with clothing and craft skill, while Hermes contributes speech and a deceptive character in Hesiod’s account. Hephaestus is specifically the deity who forms her body, making him the answer to the creation question.