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Grand Tour Souvenir Bronze Figure Of The Seated Mercury After The Antique

Grand Tour
Offered by: Robert James Walsh & Company

Description
This table-top bronze figure of the Seated Mercury is a copy of the bronze figure found in the ruins of Herculaneum in 1758, which is now in the Italian National Archeological Museum in Naples. It is a Grand Tour Souvenir purchased by a tourist in Italy in the mid 19th century. It has a black patina with hints of green. The god Mercury is at rest, seated on a rock formation, and is wearing winged sandals. In the ancient Roman religion, he was the messenger god as well as the god of luck, of accumulation of wealth, and the protector of travelers. He was also the guide of souls into the afterlife.

The historic sculpture in the Naples museum is a 1st century AD Roman copy of the original Greek figure of Hermes done in the School of Lysippos style in the 3rd century BC, but which is lost. Sculptors in the ancient Roman Empire knew of it. The original ancient Greek statue was a transitional piece - with both Classical and Hellenistic characteristics where emotion and animation were beginning to be shown. Grand Tour Souvenirs in bronze, so popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, are collected today and will add a distinctive and cultured accent to any room.

More Information

In the Style of:	Lysippos
Origin:	Italy
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	Cast and patinated bronze
Condition:	Good. Normal vintage wear and patina
Creation Date:	1840-1880
Styles / Movements:	Traditional
Dealer Reference #:	A10-8-MGR/L
Incollect Reference #:	531991

Dimensions

W.	7.5 in;	H.	8.25 in;	D.	5 in;
W.	19.05 cm;	H.	20.96 cm;	D.	12.7 cm;

Message from Seller:

Robert James Walsh & Company is a thirty-year-old Vermont business dealing in antiques, art, and modernism. Robert Walsh, owner, is also an Accredited Member of Appraisers Association of America, as well as a respected consultant. We have participated in many international trade shows in the US and Canada.