Hermes
by CTCWeb Editors
Hermes in Art
The depictions of a god or goddess by ancient Greek artist are normally consistent and drawn from the mythology surrounding the god or goddess. In the case of Hermes, artists have depicted him as an older man with a beard and as one of the youngest gods.
Students should investigate the aging of Hermes and whether this aging takes place over archaeological periods or if it is simply a random occurrence. Below are selected vases and coins on which Hermes appears. These items have been selected for their clear images and descriptions. A close look at the list of items below will also give students a good idea of how artist depicted Hermes in art.
Dewing 1269 - Young Hermes.
Dewing 1273 - Young Hermes facing holder of coin.
Dewing 2240 - Young Hermes wearing a pestasos.
Baltimore, Hopkins AIA B9 - possibly Hermes playing with whip top.
Florence 4209 - Hermes driving chariot, bearded.
Harvard 1960.347 - young Hermes floating on air holding caduceus.
Harvard 1977.216.2244 - Hermes bearded holding caduceus.
London 1971.11-1.1 - Hermes drives chariot, read the vase description for more information on his clothing, winged sandals.
London B226 - Hermes seated behind Herakles.
London B471 - Theseus kills Medusa as Hermes watches, Theseus wears Hermes’ winged boots and Medusa has winged boots too.
Malibu 86.AE.114 - hard to see but Hermes wears regular garb.
Malibu 86.AE.52 - Hermes holding messenger staff.
Mississippi 1977.3.82 - Hermes appears with Iris. A bearded Hermes holds his messenger staff and Iris wears her wings on her back.
Munich 1426 - Hermes with Athena, watches Achilles fight Hector.
Munich 1615A - The bearded Hermes carries the infant Herakles in one hand and his caduceus in the other.
Worcester 1966.63 - Hermes with Athena and Herakles has caduceus.
Questions
1. Are the artists constant with their portrayals of Hermes?
2. Can you find the story depicted on a vase or coin in a Perseus text?
3. What does Hermes usually wear? Does he wear this regardless of his age?
4. What is your favorite portrayal of Hermes? Which portrayal best suits Hermes? Why?
