Silenus, the Tutor of Dionysos

Art Historical Context

Nestled in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Medieval Art collection, *Silenus, the Tutor of Dionysos* is a delicate bone carving from the early Byzantine era (4th–7th century). This small-scale artwork, measuring just 4 3/16 x 1 3/4 x 3/4 inches, captures Silenus—the merry, wine-loving companion and foster father to the Greek god Dionysos (Bacchus)—in a style that echoes classical antiquity. Crafted by an unknown artist, it exemplifies Byzantine ivory-bone work, a technique prized for its fine detail and portability, often used for personal devotional or decorative objects. Produced during th...