Statuette of a man of small stature. The stocky, muscular body with shortened limbs and a thick neck, the head appearing to sit squarely on the shoulders. The beginning of a rotund belly. The body clothed only in a light chiton, which is draped into skilful folds over the left shoulder. His right hand at an angle, raised in the "gesture for declamation", the left at a slight angle only, pointing downwards. The "gesture for declamation" is accentuated by the restrained dynamics of the right leg, which is placed forwards, and the head turning slightly to the right. The tip of the phallus visible under the chiton, with an opening extending into the interior of the figure. The dwarf's hairstyle and the anatomical details of the face, hands, exposed right chest and other body parts are lifelike and wrought with precision. The eyes inlaid in silver. The nipples and lips probably made of copper. However, this cannot be clearly seen due to the green patina of the surface. Exceptionally superb bronze statue, probably of Alexandrine origin, where the production of grotesque figures experienced a tremendous wing during the Hellenistic period. Among other aspects, the appeal lies in the figure's almost melodramatic pose, mimicking that of an educated, declaiming orator or philosopher. The depiction is in stark contrast with the ideal image expected of such a person. The dwarf's oversized phallus is only half concealed, thereby making a mockery of his "oratory pathos". There are also apertures in the feet, which are presumably connected to the opening in the phallus. The figure may well have been part of a small domestic fountain, thereby lending the dwarf the semblance of an antique "Manneken Pis" and reinforcing the above contrast still further. Dwarfism and other characteristics that were regarded as "deformities" by society in antiquity were deployed as artistic devices to reassure the "upper class" clientele of their own well-being and happiness. At the same time, grotesque depictions were said to have apotropaic properties, particularly whenbined with oversized phalli, which were also deemed to have the power to ward off evil when worn on their own as necklaces, as has been proven by the discovery of numerous such objects. Beautiful dark green patina with slight incrustation. Height 19 cm. An exceptionally fascinating and unusual piece, documenting the social attitudes of antiquity, in a quality and outstanding condition that is seldom found on the market. Provenance: South German private collection. Condition: I -Provenance: South German private collection.