Infant Bacchants with Pipes, a Vase, and a Mask of Silenus

Roman 15th Century

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture depicts a group of six cherubic figures engaging in playful activities. The figures are small, winged, and human-like with features such as curly hair and chubby limbs. Two figures seem to be playing with or restraining another figure, one is blowing a horn-like instrument, and another is holding an unseen object close to its body. The other figures are engaged in dynamic poses suggesting motion. The sculpture is made of dark metal with a burnished finish, resembling antique bronze. The rectangular plaque has a slightly raised edge framing the scene, and the craftsmanship creates a detailed and textured surface on the relief sculpture.