AN EXCEPTIONAL LATE ROMAN GOLD ITHYPHALLIC SATYR (SILENUS) PENDANT, CIRCA 2ND-4TH CENTURY A.D.

拍品描述

AN EXCEPTIONAL LATE ROMAN GOLD ITHYPHALLIC SATYR (SILENUS) PENDANT, CIRCA 2ND-4TH CENTURY A.D. Powerfully modeled in the round, this striking high-karat gold pendant depicts a bearded ithyphallic satyr—identifiable with Silenus, the aged companion of Dionysus. The figure stands frontally, nude and corpulent, with pronounced abdomen, muscular arms, and a vividly rendered caprine lower body articulated through deeply incised, flame-like striations. The head is intensely expressive: heavy-lidded eyes, sharply cut nose, and a full, textured beard cascading in rhythmic locks. The hair, similarly worked in bold ridges, crowns the head with a sculptural vitality. The explicit ithyphallic attribute, rendered without restraint, anchors the figure firmly within the Dionysiac sphere—serving as a potent apotropaic and fertility symbol. Executed in solid, richly colored gold, the surface displays consistent ancient wear, with soft abrasion across the highest points and a warm, natural patina. A suspension loop at the reverse confirms its function as a personal amulet or pendant, likely worn for protection, vitality, and ritual association. A rare and uncompromising example of Late Roman provincial goldwork, merging raw expressive force with enduring mythological symbolism Height: 6cm Weight: 13g

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