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
    LocationStatusAccess
    Closed stores

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