Grinning Satyr

c. 1700

Balthasar Permoser

Associated Names
Balthasar Permoser

Sculptor, German, 1651 - 1732

The sculpture depicts the bust of a mythological figure resembling a satyr. It is crafted from ivory with distinct human and animalistic features including goat horns and a beard. The sculpture has a smooth texture showing subtly detailed features and drapery over one shoulder. It presents a three-dimensional relief within an oval-shaped, dark wooden frame that contrasts with the ivory. The subject is portrayed in profile, facing toward the left side of the frame, with an expression of lively curiosity directed slightly upward. The carving showcases the texture of the hair, facial features, and drapery folds, creating a sense of depth and texture in the work.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    ivory

  • Credit Line

    Patrons' Permanent Fund

  • Dimensions

    overall (oval): 9.1 x 6.8 cm (3 5/8 x 2 11/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2006.70.3


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Charles A. Howell [1840-1890], London; (his estate sale, Christie, Manson & Woods, London, 13 November 1890, no. 169); Clifford.[1] Maria Baer, London.[2] Art market, Paris; (Dr. Rainer Jungbauer, Straubing, Germany); purchased 23 June 2006 by NGA.
[1] The purchaser at the 1890 sale is recorded as "Clifford" in an annotated copy of the catalogue held by Christie's Archives (copy in NGA curatorial files, kindly provided by Marijke Booth).
[2] Labels on the back of the ivory indicate ownership by Howell and Mrs. Baer, who was the wife of Hermann Baer, an art dealer in London from the early 1940s until the 1970s.

Associated Names

Inscriptions

center right, between the hoof and background, written sideways: B.P.; center reverse, incised and colored pale violet: [very faint: 1307-/AB] / [a crown surmounted by a cross] / F

Wikidata ID

Q63863765

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