• Additional view of object
  • Additional view of object
Oct 5, 2006
Oct 5, 2006

Silenus and King Midas

Silenus and King Midas

mid 16th century

Giulio Bonasone

(Italian, c. 1510–after 1576)

after Perino del Vaga

(Italian, 1501–1547)

Italy, 16th century

Engraving

Support: Cream(1) laid paper

Sheet: 16.9 x 22.9 cm (6 5/8 x 9 in.); Platemark: 15.9 x 21.9 cm (6 1/4 x 8 5/8 in.)

Mr. and Mrs. Charles G. Prasse Collection 1968.256

Catalogue raisonné: Bartsch XV.136.89 ; Massari 97

Location

not on view

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Description

In Greek mythology Silenus was an old, drunken satyr (half-man, half-goat), who visited King Midas and was graciously received. In gratitude for Midas's generous hospitality, Dionysus, the god of wine and former pupil of Silenus, granted the king one wish. Midas asked for the power to turn everything that he touched into gold. However, he soon regretted his choice, for he was unable to eat food or drink water, as they also turned to gold. Finally, Dionysus released him from the enchantment.

See also
Collection: 
PR - Engraving
Department: 
Prints
Type of artwork: 
Print
Medium: 
Engraving
Credit line: 
Mr. and Mrs. Charles G. Prasse Collection

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