Incense Burner

Both elaborate and functional, the Etruscan thymiaterion, or incense burner, typically comprises at least three main parts-tripod stand, shaft, and, at the top, a shallow bowl for incense. Often, a figural support is incorporated, here in the form of a youthful male nude, perhaps the wine god Dionysos. Below him, the tripod stand features cloven hoofs, while above him a spotted cat or panther climbs toward a rooster or other crested bird. Holes in each corner of the square upper plate likely held additional animals or other ornaments.

Credit: John L. Severance Fund