Roman
Small Head and Torso of a Silenus with Wineskin, 2nd century - 3rd century
Marble, 29 cm (11 7/16 in.)
This is a small marble statue of the head and torso of a male figure carrying a wineskin. The marble is white with a golden tinge. The statue is highly damaged; missing his right arm, right ear, left hand and both legs. A piece of support metal is visible from his right arm. He is leaning to his right, balancing the wineskin on his left shoulder. There is a strap visible across his chest, and he has a round stomach. He has a bald head, mustache and a beard that falls in separated twisted sections, each ending in a point. His lips are slightly parted. This statue sits on a low wooden plinth.
Raphael Room
Commentary
Perched atop the center table of the Raphael Room is a small statuette of Silenus—the wise, wine-loving tutor and companion to Dionysus, the god of wine. Silenus is an old satyr, often depicted bearded and bald, who travelled with the wine god, sharing the wisdom he gained during bouts of extreme inebriation.
Just like Isabella arranged this statuette, the Romans likely used it as a decorative table ornament as well.