Old Master 18th Century Oil Painting Classical Figures Musical Recital & Satyrs

Fine Large Old Master Genre Art Italian School 18th Century Oil painting on canvas "Classical Figures Musical Harp Recital With Satyrs". Subject genre scene of ancient classical figures musical playing harp recital with satyrs. Set in a magnificant gilt frame. Italian old master artist, unsigned. This is such a tremendously executed painting. So intriguing detailed work of art which captures the muscial mood of the scene. The satyr play is a form of Attic theatre performance related to both comedy and tragedy. It preserves theatrical elements of dialogue, actors speaking verse, a chorus that dances and sings, masks and costumes. Its relationship to tragedy is strong; satyr plays were written by tragedians, and satyr plays were performed in the Dionysian festival following the performance of a group of three tragedies. The origins of performance culture and the emergence of the satyr play can be traced to ancient rural celebrations in honour of the god Dionysus. Rush Rehm argues that these inaugurated the "agricultural cycle of planting and harvesting" closely associated with Dionysus, who represented the embodiment of "a fundamental paradox inherent to the world, life-giving but potentially destructive. The mythological origins of the satyrs are closely linked to the advent of Dionysus into Hellenic culture. The satyrs and their female counterpart, the maenads, were followers of Dionysus, a “late-comer to Olympus and probably of Asiatic origin”. According to Roger Lancelyn Green, the satyrs probably began as minor nature deities, while their designated leader Silenus originated as a water spirit, a maker of springs and fountains. Silenus was already an attendant to Dionysus when the satyrs joined the god’s following, and was subsequently proclaimed their father. The satyrs characterised themselves by amorality, excessive drinking and the breaking down of traditional values and barriers. Eric Csapo and Margaret C. Miller further argue that satyrs have a strong connection with music and dance and consider them to be “archetypal musicians and dancers”, thus linking them to Dionysiac processions and the origins of performance culture. Provenance bought from a fine art auction sale label verso. Highly sought after by Ceo'S, interior designers, museums, art gallerys, antique dealers, famous & private collectors, film tv studio prop shops. Ready for immediate home wall display with hanging thread verso. Incredible conversation piece for your guests. We only select & sell paintings based upon quality & significance. We understand your purchase is for your home or as an investment. We provide our clients with friendly professional expert customer service. Viewings are welcome by appointment only for customer support please send a message thankyou. Browse our other exciting collections available in our shop gallery happy shopping.