Lot 27
Roman Empire, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A solid bronze cast near-miniature figurine depicting Mercury, Roman mythology's youthful god of commerce, Hermes in Greek mythology. The sculptor presented Mercury as an athletically built young man. Note his trained body with rippling muscles that are clearly delineated on his torso. Although the figure is standing, we are viewing him in motion. Notice the contrasting stance of his legs, the ever so slightly twisted torso and the gentle turn of his head. Clearly this Roman artist was under the influence of Greek Hellenistic sculpture with its idealistic model of anatomical proportions and delicate facial features. This figurine may be small, it boasts many layers of iconography as Mercury is depicted with several of his attributes. As one of the most revered gods, Mercury was known to attend their feasts. Here he dons a fanciful wreath for such an occasion. Small wings are delineated behind his wreath and he wears winged shoes. After all, he was the messenger of the gods. Because of his activities as messenger and guide to souls of the underworld, Mercury was a traveler who was never at rest. In this depiction, a long, travelers cloak, a chlamys, hangs over his left forearm. Figurines depicting deities such as this were usually used as votive offerings brought to temples or kept at more intimate home shrines for private worship. A wonderful example from the ancient Roman Empire! Custom, museum quality stand. Size: figurine itself measures 2.5" H (6.4 cm); 4.5" (11.4 cm) on stand
Provenance: Ex-private M. Reniger collection, Chicago, IL.
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#111377
- Condition: Old losses to hands. Otherwise a nice representation with deep green patina.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 24.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,000 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $25,000 |