Auletris (flute player)
Auletris (flute player)
Date1st-2nd century CE
Mediumbronze and silver
Dimensionsobject: 6 3/8 x 2 7/8 x 2 3/8 in. (16.2 x 7.3 x 6 cm)
base: 7/8 x 2 7/8 x 2 3/8 in. (2.2 x 7.3 x 6 cm)
ClassificationSCULPTURE
Credit LineSBMA, Gift of Wright S. Ludington
Object number1981.64.4
Subject(s)
- music
- women
- figure
Collection
- Antiquity
Sub-Collection(s)
- Roman
On View
On viewLabel TextThis auletris or flute-player is a small-scale Roman rendition in bronze of a famous work by the ancient Greek sculptor Lysippos known as the temulenta tibicina (“tipsy flute player”) from the late 4th century BCE. The auletris would have been a member of the thiasos, the drunken retinue of the god Dionysus, providing musical accompaniment to the dancing maenads. The figure sways gracefully as she lifts the double-flute and the folds of her peplos, or gown, further enhance the sense of movement and energy, creating a lighthearted sense of joyful abandon. The figure is further embellished by the addition of a silver necklace, bracelets and anklets; the missing flute was also likely a separate silver piece.
