Two satyrs leading Silenus to King Midas, who stands at left with two male attendants, a mule trails behind the satyrs 1550 - 1580

Giulio Bonasone created this print, Two satyrs leading Silenus to King Midas, sometime in the 16th century. During the Renaissance, there was a renewed interest in classical mythology and philosophy, and artists often turned to these sources for inspiration. Here, Bonasone depicts a scene from Ovid's *Metamorphoses*, showing Silenus, a companion of Dionysus known for his wisdom and love of wine, being brought before King Midas by satyrs. Midas, who was granted the power to turn everything he touched into gold, learned the hard way that not all wishes bring happiness. What does it mean to depict these mythological beings with such intentional physicality? Bonasone invites us to consider the relationship between pleasure and knowledge. The image suggests that true wisdom isn't found in material wealth, but in the company of those, like Silenus, who embrace life's sensual experiences. Ultimately, Bonasone's print is an exploration of human desire and the search for meaning. It invites us to think about the stories we tell ourselves about power, wisdom, and the good life.