Print page | Email lot to a friend
Back to previous pageLOT 0700
Sold for (Inc. bp): £208
CIRCA 1ST CENTURY B.C.-1ST CENTURY A.D.
6 1/4 in. (110 grams, 16 cm).
A bronze herm lock element representing the god Hermes, with a stylised and beardless face, long hair descending with two parallel lines on the chest with engraved stylised caduceus, finial with a plinth and a squared pin to the reverse.
PROVENANCE:
Acquired before 2000.
From the collection of a European gentleman living in the UK.
LITERATURE:
Cf. a very similar Herma in the Museum of Fine Art Budapest, inventory no.93.19.A.
FOOTNOTES:
This miniature herm, with a stylised caduceus engraved on the breast, possibly represents the god Hermes. It could have been used as a lock for a casket or a box where money was kept. Hermes was the protector of homes, symbolised by the Herma (from Hermes), a square or rectangular pillar of stone or bronze topped by a bust of the god.
TimeLine Auctions follows a rigorous vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
