Satyr Family

Andrea Briosco, called Riccio

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture depicts a scene with a central figure resembling a satyr, with human upper body and animalistic lower body characterized by shaggy, goat-like legs. The figure interacts with a reclining human figure, possibly a nymph or another character often found in mythological contexts, supporting or cradling the other's face with both hands. A smaller figure stands to the side near a stylized tree with exaggeratedly large, textured foliage. The piece is crafted from a dark, bronze-like material, giving it a rich, brown color and a polished appearance. The sculpture is rendered in relief on a flat rectangular background, with the figures standing out in prominent detail, creating a dynamic scene.