Dancing Satyr
Painted terracotta, anonymous (Boeotia), 9.5 x 8 x 5.5 cm
The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, Ohio

Depicted as half-man, and half-goat or half-horse in Greek mythology, satyrs were close companions of the god Dionysus. They embodied the wild and untamed aspects of his nature. Associated with revelry, fertility, and intoxication, satyrs were known for their love of music, wine, and chasing nymphs. They often featured in Dionysian rituals and celebrations, reflecting the untamed joy and uninhibited behaviour these events encouraged. This set of three figures was probably used to embellish the rim of a large punch bowl intended for serving wine.