A CONTROVERSIAL Roman masterpiece will take centre stage in a brand new display at the Yorkshire Museum.

The Warren Cup, a 1st Century AD silver vessel, will form the centrepiece of a new display entitled The Classical Ideal, at the museum in York from Friday until January 21.

The cup is one of the most famous and controversial pieces of Roman art in the country, and depicts two male couples engaged in sexual acts.

It has been lent to the Yorkshire Museum by the British Museum - the first time it has ever been on loan.

Andrew Morrison, curator of archaeology at the Yorkshire Museum, said: "The Yorkshire Museum is delighted to have such a remarkable piece of silverware as the focal point of our new display.

"It is a much talked-about piece, and has such a rich history that touches on different aspects and opinions of the male ideal."

The museum opens from 10am to 5pm daily.

Admission is £4.50 for adults, £3.50 for concessions and £2.50 for children, and is free to under-fives and to York residents with a York card.

For more visitor information, phone 01904 687687.