Roman Silenus head applique

ITEM: Silenus head applique
MATERIAL: Bronze
CULTURE: Roman
PERIOD: 2nd - 3rd Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 40 mm x 28 mm
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex South German private collection., acquired in 2000s

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 4 to 6 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the amount of the sale, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

Silenus was a prominent figure in Roman mythology, inherited from Greek traditions, where he was closely associated with the god Bacchus (Dionysus). Depicted as an older, bearded satyr with a rotund body and a jovial, often inebriated demeanor, Silenus was considered a wise but indulgent companion of Bacchus. He was known for his drunkenness, love of music, and prophetic abilities, often sharing profound wisdom when intoxicated. Roman representations of Silenus appeared in various forms, including statues, reliefs, mosaics, and decorative objects such as bronze figurines or oil lamps, where he was typically shown reclining, riding a donkey, or holding a drinking vessel.

In Roman art, Silenus was frequently depicted in bacchic processions, surrounded by satyrs, maenads, and other followers of Bacchus. These scenes, often found on sarcophagi, frescoes, and mosaics, symbolized themes of revelry, abundance, and the cycle of life and death. His figure was also popular in decorative household items, such as furniture ornaments and drinking vessels, reinforcing his connection to banquets and feasting. Some Roman depictions of Silenus took on a more philosophical aspect, portraying him as a sage-like figure who, despite his drunkenness, possessed deep knowledge about the nature of existence. His association with Bacchus made him an important character in Roman religious festivals, where processions and theatrical performances honored the god of wine.

Beyond artistic and religious contexts, Silenus also had a cultural and symbolic role in Roman society. His wisdom, often revealed when intoxicated, reflected a paradoxical view of truth emerging from chaos, a theme explored in literature and philosophical discussions. Roman authors such as Ovid and Virgil referenced Silenus in their works, emphasizing his dual nature as both a comic and prophetic figure. His imagery persisted in Roman art and continued to influence later artistic traditions, appearing in Renaissance and Baroque depictions of bacchic revelry.