From ancient Greek, Canosa, ca. 3rd century BC. Hollow two part molded terracotta effigy, which was originally constructed as a rattle. Silenus sits atop the boar and holds a wreath. Much original white, blue and pink pigment remains. SEILENOS (or Silenus) was the old rustic god of the dance of the wine-press, his name being derived from the words seiô, "to move to and fro," and lênos, "the wine-trough." He was also the god of drunkenness who rode in the train of Dionysos seated on the back of a donkey. The old satyr was the foster-father of the god Dionysos. 4-3/4"H (12cm), mostly intact with repairs and losses, as shown. Not perfect, but a very rare example.

ProvenanceEx-private Gualario Collection, FL acquired in the 1960s.

Material Pottery
Dimensions 4-3/4"H
Condition Mostly Intact

Antiquities
Ancient Greek