Head of Marsyas

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Marsyas, a Silenus figure, takes center stage in two Greek myths. In one tale, he stumbles upon Athena's double oboe and skillfully brings it to life with his playing. Meanwhile, in another story, Marsyas dares to challenge Apollo to a musical showdown but ultimately comes out on the losing end. This specific head was once part of a larger statue depicting the musical contest between these two legendary figures. Its anguished expression vividly conveys Marsyas's shock and despair as he realizes his defeat is imminent and that death awaits him as punishment for his hubris.