Bronze statuette of Hermes
Unknown Artist
1st century BCE–2nd century CE
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
H. 5 7/16 in. (13.8 cm)
Classification
Bronzes
Culture & Period
Greek or Roman · Late Hellenistic or Imperial
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Henry G. Marquand, 1897
Accession Number
97.22.1
Tags
Art Historical Context
This charming bronze statuette of Hermes standing just 5 7/16 inches (13.8 cm) tall, invites us into the divine world of ancient Greece or Rome. Dating from the 1st century BCE the 2nd century—spanning the Late Hellenistic or Imperial periods—this small-scale figure captures the swift-footed messenger god, known for his winged sandals, caduceus staff, and role as patron of travelers, commerce, heralds. Likely produced as a votive offering or household shrine piece, its modest size made it portable and personal, reflecting everyday devotion in the classical world. Bronze was a prestigious medi...