Artwork Page for Dancing Dwarf

Details / Information for Dancing Dwarf

Dancing Dwarf

100 BCE–100 CE

Italy(?), Roman

Medium
bronze
Measurements
Overall: 4.4 cm (1 3/4 in.)
Credit Line
Sundry Purchase Fund by Exchange 1972.72
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
103 Roman
Print
?

Did You Know?

People with dwarfism were favorite subjects in Hellenistic art, and then became popular in the Roman Empire.

Description

This small, bearded figure wears a twisted sash around his hips and has an exaggerated phallus. He stands with his left arm raised and his right arm on his waist. His left hand is missing but could have once held krotala (ancient clapper-like instruments), as other examples of dancing dwarves hold. People with dwarfism in art are typically rendered with a large head, widely spaced eyes, sharply raised eyebrows, and a depressed nasal bridge, all seen on this figure. This object may have been used as an apotropaic, or protective, amulet to ward off evil.
A textured green-patinated bronze sculpture depicts a squat, muscular man with an oversized head and thick beard. Balancing on his right leg, he tucks his right arm behind his back while his left is raised and broken at the elbow. A thin cloth wraps around his hips, highlighting a defined torso and prominent phallus. The aged surface features detailed curls in his hair and beard with a furrowed brow.

Dancing Dwarf

100 BCE–100 CE

Italy(?), Roman

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

    Contact Us

    The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

    Update or Correct Artwork Information

    Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

    Report a Website Issue

    Further Questions About This Artwork