Graeco-Roman Marble Head of Silenus. 2nd century B.C.-1st century A.D. A carved limestone head depicting Silenus as a bearded man, the beard beautifully arranged in locks vertically disposed around the mouth; mounted on a custom-made display stand. Cf. The MET, accession no.74.51.1496, for a similar head of Silenus in terracotta. 2.93 kg total, 22.2 cm high including stand (8 3/4 in.) Acquired 1960s-1990s. From the late Alison Barker collection, a retired London barrister The head, notwithstanding the water erosion, presents a somewhat idealised version of the 'Silenus' type of Socrates, with a noteworthy arrangement of the beard and moustache. The Romans appreciated portrayals of satyrs and Silens and used them, as was probably the case for our sculpture, to decorate garden fountains and water spouts.

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