Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A lovely solid cast-bronze herm depicting a standing male figure with a delicately-scalloped headband, rounded shoulders, nubbin-shaped arms, and delineated male genitalia. His gentle visage is comprised of almond-shaped eyes, puffy cheeks, petite ears, and a bulbous nose, all atop a thick neck. Covered in green- and russet-hued patina, this is a strong example! Comes with custom wooden display stand. Size: 3.5" H (8.9 cm); 5.25" H (13.3 cm) on included custom stand.

Herm or herma are sculptures with a head, and sometimes a torso with male genitals carved at the appropriate height. They are thought to derive from the ancient Greek practice of worshipping divinities that were in the form of cairns or columns of stone or wood. These later evolved into adding a head and phallus to the column. Many herma are of Hermes himself, but others - both gods and real figures like Socrates and Plato - are known. Statues like this one were apotropaic and kept in many places - at crossroads, in temples, in public places, and in homes. This figure would have been protective for its owner.

Provenance: private Orange County, California, USA collection, acquired before 2000

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#131011

Expected age-commensurate surface wear, fading to facial features, with small nicks to arms and base, otherwise intact and very good. Nice mineral deposits as well as green and russet patina throughout.