Roman Applique of God Bacchus (Dionysus)

This item depicts the Roman god Bacchus, known in classical Greek mythology as Dionysus, who was the god of wine and festivities, as well as the patron of agriculture, theatre and carnal debauchery. The god Bacchus is depicted with youthful features, his hair centrally parted, wearing the characteristic wreath with vine leaves and grapes, above which are two large fruits. The God emerges from four large palmettes wearing a chiton wrapped with a goat skin tied over his left shoulder. Originally, this bronze sculpture could have been attached to a piece of furniture.