Artwork
Head of Silenus
Head of Silenus is a print by the Renaissance artist Adamo Scultori. It dates from 1567 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 2025.137
- Credit line
- Elizabeth Carroll Shearer Fund
About this work
Overview
Head of Silenus is an engraving by Adamo Scultori, based on a design attributed to Giulio Romano for the Palazzo del Te in Mantua.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts Silenus, the mythological tutor of Bacchus, characterized by his inebriated expression and protruding tongue, embodying overindulgence and revelry.
Technique & Style
Scultori's engraving employs chiaroscuro, with deep shadows and heavily worked hatching that evoke the texture of relief carving, such as stucco.
History & Provenance
The design is believed to have originated from Giulio Romano's work for the Palazzo del Te, although the original design is untraced.
Artist & collection
Artist
Adamo Scultori (c.1530 – 1585), also referred to as Adamo Ghisi, was an Italian engraver, sculptor and artist.
