Statuette of Turms / Hermes

Bronze
Etruscan, 4th century BC
H. 9.1 cm

Etruscan bronze votive statuette of the god Turms, the Etruscan version of the Greek god Hermes and the Roman Mercury; the god of trade, commerce, and messenger of the gods. Turms was believed to be the son of the god Tinia (Jupiter in Roman mythology) and the goddess Uni (Juno in Roman mythology). Turms was one of the twelve major gods in the Etruscan pantheon. He was also associated with travel and boundaries and was sometimes depicted as a guide for the souls of the dead.

Our statuette is attached to its original lead mounting.

Condition: Excellent with beautiful silky patina. Left hand missing.

Provenance: The estate-collection of a Swiss gentleman, Ticino, before 1970

Item reference: CL1569