★ Appealing Object ★

A LARGE AND EXPRESSIVE ROMAN BRONZE APPLIQUE OF SILENUS
Circa 1st century AD.
High-quality mask applique of Silenus with very well-articulated facial features. The companion of Dionysus is depicted with upswept hair and large, pointed ears. The slightly bulging almond-shaped eyes are deeply set below his furrowed, overhanging brow. He is shown with a wide snub nose and pronounced cheek bones; his flowing beard and moustache form a thick mass of radiating wavy locks. Above the head, probably a bunch of fruits and berries. Two holes for attachment. The outer left part of the beard and the ear were either separately attached or never existed, depending on the function and original position of the applique.
H 94 mm

From the collection of an Austrian art dealer, acquired on the European art market.