Roman Leaded Bronze Standing Nude Mercury (Auction 2026-06-05, Lot 170B)

$321.25

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

Condition: Missing hands with losses to feet. Weathering and abrasions to surface as shown. Liberal remaining detail and rich patina throughout.