Terracotta askos in the shape of Silenus

Greek, South Italian

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 159

The flask is shaped as a statuette of a reclining older satyr, also known as Silenus. He lies on a low couch, atop a panther skin, which is clearly visible on his back. Silenus’ elbow leans on a wineskin, his back against a sitting panther, whose mouth serves as the spout of the vase. In his right hand, he likely originally held a cup or bowl of wine, which explains his state of intoxication. Silenus was frequently depicted in South Italian vases, where he is always shown as a disorderly and comic figure, with an unkempt beard, a large belly and grotesque facial expression.

Terracotta askos in the shape of Silenus, Terracotta, with traces of red, Greek, South Italian

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Terracotta askos in the shape of Silenus, Terracotta, with traces of red, Greek, South Italian
Terracotta askos in the shape of Silenus, Terracotta, with traces of red, Greek, South Italian
Terracotta askos in the shape of Silenus, Terracotta, with traces of red, Greek, South Italian

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