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Statuette of Priapus

Unknown1st–2nd century A.D.

The J. Paul Getty Museum

The J. Paul Getty Museum
Los Angeles, United States

Small figurine of Priapus, the god of fertility. He has a flowing beard, deeply-set eyes and wears a cap on his head. With sandals on his feet, he is dressed in a long-sleeved tunic and himation. Priapus grasps the sides of his garment, lifting it upwards to create a deep fold that overflows with masses of fruit and agricultural produce. In lifting his himation, he reveals his enormous phallus, creating a vivid connection between fertility and abundance.

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  • Title: Statuette of Priapus
  • Creator: Unknown
  • Date Created: 1st–2nd century A.D.
  • Physical Dimensions: 12.3 × 5 × 3.5 cm (4 13/16 × 1 15/16 × 1 3/8 in.)
  • Type: Male figure
  • External Link: Find out more about this object on the Museum website.
  • Medium: Bronze
  • Terms of Use: Open Content
  • Number: 73.AB.21
  • Culture: Roman
  • Credit Line: The J. Paul Getty Museum, Villa Collection, Malibu, California
  • Creator Display Name: Unknown
  • Classification: Sculpture (Visual Works)
The J. Paul Getty Museum

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