Nymph and and old Satyr

myminifactory

This marble relief depicts a nymph and an old satyr, a common scene in Greek mythology. Satyrs are a troop of male companions of Pan and Dionysus that roamed the woods and mountains. In mythology, they are often associated with male sex drive and many artists have portrayed them with erections. Satyrs acquired their goat-like aspect through later conflation with the Roman Faunus, a carefree nature spirit of similar temperament. Satyrs are described as roguish but faint-hearted folk — subversive and dangerous, yet shy and cowardly. As Dionysiac creatures, they are lovers of wine, women and boys, and are ready for every physical pleasure. They love to dance with the nymphs with whom they are obsessed and whom they often pursue.