Bronze statuette of a satyr with a torch and wineskin

Greek

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 164

Thiasoi were jubilant celebrations in honor of Dionysos that were attended by satyrs and maenads. From ancient literature, we learn that thiasoi occurred outdoors, and often at night. This fine bronze satyr can be identified as a participant in one such revel. An unusual aspect of his iconography is the inverted torch, a motif with great narrative potential, for the satyr may be extinguishing it or perhaps lighting it from a hearth. The full wineskin implies the latter and evokes the promise of a long, boisterous evening of drunken merriment.

Bronze statuette of a satyr with a torch and wineskin, Bronze, Greek

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Open Access

As part of the Met's Open Access policy, you can freely copy, modify and distribute this image, even for commercial purposes.

API

Public domain data for this object can also be accessed using the Met's Open Access API.

Bronze statuette of a satyr with a torch and wineskin, Bronze, Greek
Bronze statuette of a satyr with a torch and wineskin, Bronze, Greek
Bronze statuette of a satyr with a torch and wineskin, Bronze, Greek
Bronze statuette of a satyr with a torch and wineskin, Bronze, Greek
Bronze statuette of a satyr with a torch and wineskin, Bronze, Greek

This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.