Sculpted Head of a Dionysiac Figure (Pan?)

Sculpted Head of a Dionysiac Figure (Pan?)

Dionysus or Pan

This figural sculpture presented is possibly representative of two mythological Gods from the Greek antiquity, Dionysius or Pan. Dionysius is known as the God of fertility and wildlife but also wine. Pan is known as the God of flocks and pastures but has also been considered the God of all nature. The sculpture here depicts a bearded male with narrow eyes, long nose, and thin lips making it hard to decipher who exactly this might be. However, despite the confusion of who the subject may be, it is evident that this sculpture looks back to Greek mythology during the early Byzantine era.

Dumbarton Oaks

Late 4th – Early 5th Century

Austin Cooper

Dumbarton Oaks

http://museum.doaks.org/objects-1/info/35684

Limestone; 15 cm x 8.5 cm x 10 cm

Sculpture

1930.10