Silenus: head and shoulders, his head wreathed with vine leaves. Etching by R. Blyth, 1779, after J.H. Mortimer.
- Mortimer, John Hamilton, 1740-1779.
- Date:
- July 19th 1779
- Reference:
- 3063664i
- Pictures
About this work
Description
Silenus was usually portrayed full-faced and undraped, as the drunken companion and follower of the god Dionysus. The present print shows him as haggard, grimacing, and ravaged by drink, and wearing a patterned robe. Mortimer's drinking habits are mentioned by biographers; the present print was published shortly after his death on 4 February 1779
Publication/Creation
[London] : Publish'd as the Act directs ... by R. Blyth, July 19th 1779.
Physical description
1 print : etching, with engraving ; image 22.2 x 15.8 cm
Lettering
Painted by J. H. Mortimer. Etch'd by R. Blyth
Reference
Wellcome Collection 3063664i
Type/Technique
Languages
Where to find it
- impression trimmed within lettering and mounted
Location Status Access Closed stores