Lot 68A
Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A petite but powerful leaded bronze figurine of the god Mercury, the Roman counterpart of the Greek Hermes, revered as the swift messenger of the gods and patron of travelers, commerce, and communication. Cast with a lean, youthful physique, the god is shown nude, a common convention emphasizing his divine vitality. His head bears a stylized representation of the winged petasos cap, a key attribute that identified him instantly to ancient viewers. The figure stands with balanced contrapposto, arms slightly bent, suggesting he once held additional attributes - perhaps a caduceus in one hand and a money pouch in the other. Size: 1.1" W x 2.2" H (2.8 cm x 5.6 cm)
Mercury occupied a central role in Roman religion and daily life, embodying eloquence, trade, and fortune, as well as guiding souls to the underworld. Figurines such as this were likely used as household cult objects or votive offerings, invoking his favor in business, travel, or safe passage. The leaded bronze material, with its mottled green and dark gray patina, testifies to its antiquity while preserving fine surface details of his youthful form.
Provenance: private Thousand Oaks, California, USA collection, acquired 1970s to 2000s
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.
SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)
PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
#197245
- Condition: Missing hands with losses to feet. Weathering and abrasions to surface as shown. Liberal remaining detail and rich patina throughout.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 25% 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 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |