Greece, Hellenistic Period, ca. 3rd to 1st century BCE. An exquisite example of a cast-bronze applique depicting the elderly face of Dionysus (also Dionysos, Roman Bacchus). Exhibited on the face of Dionysus are heavy-lidded, almond-shaped eyes beneath sweeping brows, a plateaued nose with slightly flared nostrils, pursed lips with a delineated philtrum, and an ivy wreath set low atop his brow. Radiating from his muzzle are the carefully bound locks of his beard which indicates his advanced age in this depiction. Additional ivy leaves protruding from his temples bear a slight concave profile that enabled the original owner to attach it to a fine possession, perhaps a bronze oinochoe used for pouring wine or other libations. Lustrous layers of brown and green patina have formed across the maskette and create a distinguished, upscale presentation. Size: 1.3" W x 1.4" H (3.3 cm x 3.6 cm); 2.25" H (5.7 cm) on included custom stand.

Published in: Eisenberg, J. "Art of the Ancient World, vol. VI" Royal-Athena Galleries, New York, 1991, no. 117.

On loan from 1995 to 2016 to Ball State University Art Gallery; George Mason University; and Fitchburg Art Museum

Provenance: private Clarkston, Michigan, USA collection, acquired in July 1992; ex-Royal-Athena Galleries, New York, New York, USA; ex-Wilhelm Horn (1870-1959) collection, Berlin, Germany

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#157869

Small nicks and abrasions to brow, face, beard, peripheries, and verso, with light encrustations within some recessed areas, otherwise intact and excellent. Wonderful preservation to finer details and great brown and green patina throughout.