Antique Statue of Seated Putto Holding Mask of Silenus 1775

This pencil drawing by English artist John Downman, created in 1775, depicts a seated putto (a chubby, winged baby in classical art) holding a mask of Silenus, a drunken, satyr-like companion of Dionysus, the Greek god of wine. The detailed, almost lifelike rendering of the putto's anatomy and the mask's features showcases Downman's skill and artistic style. The drawing, currently held in the Art Institute of Chicago, is a testament to Downman's interest in classical mythology and his ability to capture a moment of playful, innocent charm.