Fountain mascaron depicting Bacchus or Silenus in terracotta, 18th century

Date

18th century

Origin

Italy or southern France

Materials

Terracotta

Dimensions

Height: 45 cm; width: 32 cm

Sculpted and moulded terracotta fountain mascaron depicting the head of Silenus or a bearded Dionysian deity. Its theatrical expression, with wide-open eyes, a deeply furrowed brow and prominent cheekbones, belongs to the tradition of grotesque Italian and southern French mascarons. The gaping mouth, fitted with a broadly extended tongue pierced at its centre by a circular aperture, was intended for the passage of a water pipe. This element from a fountain or garden basin is surmounted by drapery or a band falling on either side of the head. Of an origin situated in Italy or southern France, the work dates from the 18th century. The terracotta displays a natural patina of use, surface erosion, slight flaking and calcareous deposits attesting to partial immersion and prolonged exposure outdoors.