Drunken Silenus

The Bacchanal, an exuberant celebration in honour of Dionysus, the God of Wine, was a popular theme in Baroque art. The depictions often highlighted sensuality and merriment. Jegher’s woodcut, based on a drawing by Rubens, shows three drunken, barely clad participants at the festivity. Dominating the scene is the swaying Silenus, supported by two companions. Apart from a bushy beard and a vine tendril around his head, Silenus is completely naked. His companion, who is behind him to the left holding Silenus’ stomach, has a human torso and hairy animal legs with hooves, as well as a hairy backside. Its ears are pointed, and two small horns can be seen under its full head of hair. Silenus’ companion to the right has placed Silenus’ arms around his waist to support him. He, too, is naked, apart from a cloth around his loins. This companion bends a long way forward. He attempts to look Silenus in the eye, but the latter has inclined his head, and his eyes are almost closed.