Bronze herm

ca. 490 BCE
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 155
The herm is a type of monument that takes its name from Hermes, the messenger god, who was also the protector of travelers, communities and houses, entrances and exits, as well as flocks. Herms were typically set up along thoroughfares and boundaries, at gates, and also at tombs. The region of Arkadia was rich in herds of sheep and goats. It is likely that this exceptionally fine bronze was dedicated at a sanctuary of Hermes.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Bronze herm
  • Period: Archaic
  • Date: ca. 490 BCE
  • Culture: Greek, Arcadian
  • Medium: Bronze
  • Dimensions: H. 3 5/8 in. (9.2 cm)
  • Classification: Bronzes
  • Credit Line: Gift of Norbert Schimmel Trust, 1989
  • Object Number: 1989.281.56
  • Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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