Dionysus , Bacchus

Handcrafted Replica Terracotta Statue – Dionysus, God of Wine & Festivities

Details

This beautifully crafted replica terracotta statue is inspired by an ancient Greek example and depicts Dionysus, the god of wine, theatre, and revelry, in his youthful form. His somewhat androgynous features subtly nod to representations of Hermaphroditus, yet the grapes woven into his elaborate headdress unmistakably identify him as Dionysus, the Twice-Born God.

As the god of wine, celebration, theatre, and religious ecstasy, Dionysus embodies the pleasures of life, promoting sociability and joy. However, like many ancient deities, his influence is a double-edged sword—ecstasy and merriment can swiftly descend into chaos and madness if indulgence is taken too far.

The Myth of the Twice-Born God

Dionysus’ birth was as dramatic as the revelry he inspires. His mother, Semele, a Theban princess, was seduced by Zeus. Upon discovering the affair, Hera, Zeus’ vengeful wife, disguised herself as an old woman and planted doubt in Semele’s mind, convincing her that the man claiming to be Zeus was merely a mortal deceiving her. As proof, Hera suggested that Semele ask Zeus to reveal himself in his true godly form, knowing that no mortal could survive such a sight.

Zeus, rather than warning Semele of the danger, granted her request, and in an instant, she was incinerated by his divine radiance. Yet, Zeus had enough compassion to rescue the unborn Dionysus, removing the fetus from Semele’s womb and sewing him into his own thigh. There, Dionysus remained until he was ready to be born a second time, earning him the title of the Twice-Born God.

Fascinating Facts About Dionysus

• When his beloved Ampelos died in a tragic accident, Dionysus pleaded for his rebirth. The gods granted his request, and Ampelos was transformed into the first grapevine, from which Dionysus made the first wine.
• Some later myths say Hestia, goddess of the hearth, stepped down from Mount Olympus to allow Dionysus—a popular, wild, and unconventional deity—to take her place.
• Dionysus was known to perform miracles, including turning water into wine—a story that may sound familiar!
• In Roman mythology, Dionysus is known as Bacchus, and his celebrations, the Bacchanalia, became infamous for their extravagant feasting and revelry.

This replica is based on a first-century depiction of Dionysus Sabazius. The elegance of the body and pose are typical of this period. The figure is one of many featured in Greek Terracottas by R.A. Higgins.

Materials

Earthenware, pipeclay

Dimensions

Height: Approx. 450 mm

Production

This museum-quality replica has been entirely handmade in Northumberland by Potted History, inspired by original ancient artefacts.

• Handcrafted using traditional techniques
• Fired between 800°C - 1,000°C, replicating the authentic process
• Each piece is unique, with variations in surface colour and texture, just as seen in original ancient pottery

Ordering Information

• 'Add to Basket' Items: Ready to ship immediately.
• 'Pre-order' Items: Handmade to order within 90 days (longer for international orders). If your order includes both 'Add to Basket' and 'Pre-order' items, they will be shipped together once all items are ready.

Shipping

• Standard shipping: Sent via second-class postal service.
• Faster delivery: If you require first-class shipping, please contact us for a custom quote.

Invite the spirit of ancient celebration into your home – order today and honour the legacy of Dionysus!