About
Sileni and satyrs are two famous rural divinities associated with the retinue of Dionysus. They are both elementary spirits of the forest and mountains and play principal roles in Dionysus’ orgiastic festivals. Silenus is the most popular of the sileni. Characterized as a fat old man, he is often shown drinking and staggering about, supported by other sileni, or swaying on the back of a donkey. In St. Louis University’s bronze sculpture Silenus, the old man is shown sprawled on animal skins during one of his drinking bouts, his right foot kicked up and one arm extended in a celebratory gesture. (Courtesy of SLUMA)
Dimensions: 5′ x 7′ x 4′
Year Completed: 1800s
Material: Bronze
Owner: Saint Louis University
