Silver handle from a serving dish

early 3rd century CE
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 169
The handle depicts the triumphal return of Dionysus from India, an important aspect of the mystery cult, symbolizing triumph over death. The scene occurs frequently on contemporary Roman sarcophagi, but here the procession is shown in the context of Roman trophies, captives, and weapons.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Silver handle from a serving dish
  • Period: Mid-Imperial, Severan
  • Date: early 3rd century CE
  • Culture: Roman
  • Medium: Silver
  • Dimensions: length (preserved) 22.71 cm
  • Classification: Gold and Silver
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1954
  • Object Number: 54.11.8
  • Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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