Roman Bust of Child-Satyr (#1)

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This late Roman copper-alloy bust of a child-satyr was found on a site near Chichester. The satyr emerges from a wreath (calyx) of leaves, and in place of an animal-skin nebris it has ivy leaves over the left shoulder. It is approximately 5.5cm tall and 4cm wide.

The figure is probably one of a trio (of which we have two) that would have adorned a tripod. Although they have the same features, the two figures that we have were cast in different moulds. This one is notably sharper and better quality than the other, so perhaps it was a later replacement.

It is likely to be of local, Romano-British origin. It dates from the 2nd or 3rd century AD, although it was found in a pit with finds dating to the later 4th century. Objects such as tripods are likely to have been used for a long time, which may explain this disparity in dating.

These archaeological investigations were commissioned by RPS Consulting Services Ltd.

With thanks to Martin Henig of Oxford University for comments on the satyr busts.