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The Education of Dionysus

Salver
ca. 1889 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

Levillain was a distinguished sculptor and medallist who first started to exhibit in 1861. His subject matter was frequently drawn from classical mythology while his style was a meticulous reworking of antique sources in a contemporary manner. This salver depicts 'The Education of Dionysus'.

Object details

Categories
Object type
TitleThe Education of Dionysus (generic title)
Materials and techniques
Gilt bronze
Brief description
Salver depicting 'The Education of Dionysus', designed by Ferdinand Levillain, produced by Ferdinand Barbedienne, Paris, ca. 1889
Physical description
Circular, gilt bronze salver in the form of a Greek, earthenware calyx, considerably enlarged. The central medallion consisting of a seated, nude male figure benath an overhanging vine, dangling a bunch of grapes before a standing, naked child depicts the education of Dionysus. The rim with a border of cast ornament, partly gilt and feathered edge. Two handles with scroll ornament are attached to either side.
Dimensions
  • Maximum width: 57cm
Marks and inscriptions
  • Signed under the handle: F. Barbedienne
  • Inscribed in Greek: Dionysus
Gallery label
(1987-2006)
SALVER
Designed by Ferdinand Levillan (1837-1905)
Manufactured by Ferdinand Barbedienne (1810-1892)
French, Paris, 1889
Gilt bronze
Inscribed, in Greek: "Dionysus"
Signed under the handle "F. Barbedienne"
93-1890

Levillain was a distinguished sculptor and medallist who first started to exhibit in 1861. His subject matter was frequently drawn from classical mythology while his style was a meticulous reworking of antique sources in a contemporary manner. This salver depicts 'The Education of Dionysus'.
Historical context
Levillain was a distinguished sculptor and medallist who first started to exhibit in 1861. His subject matter was frequently drawn from classical mythology while his style was a meticulous reworking of antique sources in a contemporary manner.
Subject depicted
Summary
Levillain was a distinguished sculptor and medallist who first started to exhibit in 1861. His subject matter was frequently drawn from classical mythology while his style was a meticulous reworking of antique sources in a contemporary manner. This salver depicts 'The Education of Dionysus'.
Bibliographic reference
Eric Turner in Art and Design in Europe and America 1800-1900, ed. Simon Jervis, London, The Herbert Press 1987, pp.152-3. ill. ISBN. 0906969751
Collection
Accession number
93-1890

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Record createdApril 28, 2006
Record URL
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