Statuette of Mercury (Hermes)

Place of OriginLikely Italy

Date1st to 3rd century CE

DimensionsH: 3 3/16 in. (8.1 cm); L: 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm); W: 1 1/8 in. (2.9 cm)

MediumBronze, solid cast

ClassificationSculpture

Credit LineGift of the Popplestone Family

Object number

2006.95

Not on View

DescriptionA solid-cast bronze statuette depicting the nude god Mercury standing in a contrapposto pose, his weight on his right leg. He holds a purse (marsupium) in his extended right hand and a caduceus (kerykeion) in his left hand, which rests against his shoulder. A traveler's cloak (chlamys) is draped over his left shoulder and arm. He wears a winged petasos on his head. The figure is mounted on a modern base. The surface patina is green with some areas of wear and isolated pitting on the chest.

Label TextThis small bronze statuette depicts Mercury (the Greek Hermes), the Roman god of commerce, travel, and communication. He is easily recognized by his winged hat (petasos) and the herald’s staff (caduceus) cradled in his left arm. In his right hand, he holds a purse, symbolizing his role as the bringer of profit and prosperity. Small figures like this were mass-produced in the Roman Empire and commonly kept in household shrines called lararia, where families would offer daily prayers for success and safe journeys. The statue’s athletic, nude form mimics famous Greek sculptures from centuries earlier, showing how Romans adapted Greek art for their own religious needs.Published ReferencesSotheby's New York, Antiquities, December 7, 2001, lot 309.