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Statue of Priapus
Roman
Imperial Period
A.D. 170–240
Medium/Technique
Marble
Dimensions
Overall: 159 x 53 x 32 cm (62 5/8 x 20 7/8 x 12 5/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Fiske Warren and Edward Perry Warren
Accession NumberRES.08.34a
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsSculpture
Catalogue Raisonné
Sculpture in Stone (MFA), no. 206; Sculpture in Stone and Bronze (MFA), p. 112 (additional published references).
DescriptionBearded Priapus has a fillet with herringbone enrichment tied around his brow, and a cloak over his head and shoulders. He wears a high-belted sleeveless tunic over a long-sleeved tunic. He is holding them up to contain a lapful of fruits. His erect phallus also acts as a support for the fruit. High, rustic boots adorn his feet, which stand on a plinth. Such statues were placed in Roman gardens to ensure growth and act as protector of crops.
All surfaces are damaged somewhat and have been affected by ancient and later weathering.
All surfaces are damaged somewhat and have been affected by ancient and later weathering.
ProvenanceBefore 1908, possibly in the Ludovisi Collection, Rome [see note]; by 1908, Edward Perry Warren (b. 1860-d. 1928), London; 1908, given by E. P. Warren to the MFA. (Accession date: 1910)
Note: According to B. Palma, et al., Museo Nazionale Romano, Le Sculture (a cura di Antonio Giuliano) I, 6: Marmi Ludovisi dispersi (1979), p. 15, Lanciani acted as an intermediary in the sale of several sculptures from the Ludovisi Collection to the MFA, Boston, including this Priapos.
Note: According to B. Palma, et al., Museo Nazionale Romano, Le Sculture (a cura di Antonio Giuliano) I, 6: Marmi Ludovisi dispersi (1979), p. 15, Lanciani acted as an intermediary in the sale of several sculptures from the Ludovisi Collection to the MFA, Boston, including this Priapos.