Italian, ca. 1853

H. 69”

Original location:  East of the front entrance steps

Location of original statue:  Inman Hall

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Mercury is the messenger of the gods and the protector of commerce and travelers. This makes him appropriate for a place next to the entrance. He is also the educator, and he instructs Cupid. 

 

His attributes include winged shoes, which allow him to move quickly, and a winged cap called a petasus.  In his left hand he holds a caduceus, a rod with two snakes coiled around it.  It has the power to put people to sleep.  In his right hand he holds out a bag of money, which refers to him as the protector of commerce. 

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