Large Bronze Statue Of Silenus By M. Amodio - “grand Tour” - Italy - Late 19th Century

A finely chiseled and patinated bronze sculpture depicting Silenus, the faithful companion and tutor of Dionysus (Bacchus), captured in a dramatic pose as he raises an imposing coiled serpent above his head. The figure, crowned with bunches of grapes and vine leaves, sports the full beard and robust physique characteristic of this iconic figure from Greco-Roman mythology, a symbol of wine, intoxication, and wisdom.

This composition is inspired by a famous ancient model discovered in Pompeii and housed at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli. It was widely popular among travelers on the Grand Tour, who brought back bronze reproductions of ancient masterpieces from their stays in Italy.

The sculpture rests on a circular base richly adorned with neoclassical motifs. It bears the engraved signature “M. Amodio, Napoli,” attributable to Michele Amodio, a famous Neapolitan foundryman and bronze artist active during the second half of the 19th century. His workshop was renowned for the quality of its castings, the finesse of their chiseling, and their nuanced patinas, intended for an international clientele of collectors and lovers of ancient art.

The quality of the modeling, the remarkable rendering of the snake’s scales, the naturalistic depiction of the hair and beard, and the beautiful brown-green patina all attest to the exceptional craftsmanship of the Amodio foundry. The signature engraved on the base confirms the Neapolitan origin of this work.

Italy, Naples, circa 1870–1890
Bronze with brown and green patina
Signed on the base: M. Amodio, Napoli.