The composition by Annibale Carracci in the National Gallery, London, from which this picture is derived, is usually thought to be the panel of a keyboard instrument, owing to its distinctive irregular shape. Here the painting is on canvas, which suggests that it did not form part of a musical instrument. Bacchus is well known as the God of wine and is often shown with Silenus, who was in the former’s retinue. Silenus is usually shown drunk, albeit affectionately, and with respect, owing to the belief that he had the gift of prophecy.

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