Silenus holding Dionysus figurine. Wise and Gentle Fatherhood Nurturing Male Energy The infant Dionysus is enfolded within the loving arms of Silenus, his strong and protective guardian. In Greek Mythology, Silenus, (son of Hermes) was foremost among the woodland spirits. Exceptionally wise and gentle, he was chosen as the foster father of Dionysus (also known as Bacchus). We have chosen the colours of the forest to further emphasis the relationship between man and the environment.