Marble Sculpture of Mercury, 1820, Marble

Description

Rare Italian neoclassical sculpture from the first half of the 19th century. Statue in white Carrara marble of extraordinary executive … more Rare Italian neoclassical sculpture from the first half of the 19th century. Statue in white Carrara marble of extraordinary executive quality depicting the messenger of the Gods Mercury. Son of Jupiter and Maia, he is considered the protector of trade and travellers. We recognise his typical iconographic elements such as the Petasos, the winged headdress, and the caduceus, the legendary winged staff with two intertwined snakes symbolising concord. The statue has a small defect on one of the wings of the headdress (see photo), but is in excellent overall condition. less