Hellenistic Greek Chalcedony Intaglio of Hermes with Caduceus and Purse

Eastern Mediterranean, Hellenistic Greek. An oval intaglio of translucent chalcedony, cut in a honey tone that warms to orange at its bevelled edge. Hermes stands nude except for his petasos, the brimmed traveller's hat. His caduceus and a fall of drapery rest in the crook of his right arm, and his outstretched left hand holds a money purse. The engraver modelled the figure with confident drill and wheel strokes: the torso is lean, the weight shifts into a relaxed contrapposto, and the folds of cloth are set down as quick, lively cuts. The purse marks Hermes as the god of commerce and profit, so the gem would have suited a merchant's signet well. It was likely made for a finger ring, where it served as both seal and personal amulet. Hermes (Mercury to the Romans) was one of the gem engraver's favourite subjects. He was the messenger of the Olympians, the guide of souls to the underworld, the patron of travellers, heralds, and thieves, and above all the god of gain. Each attribute on this stone does a specific job. The petasos marks him as a traveller. The caduceus (kerykeion), a herald's staff wound with two snakes, guaranteed safe passage between enemies. The drapery thrown over the arm is the chlamys, a short cloak. The purse (marsupium) points to his role as the bringer of commercial luck, and it became one of his most common attributes in the later Hellenistic and Roman periods. After Alexander's conquests, gem engraving became a widespread art across the Greek world. Hard stones of the quartz family, such as chalcedony, carnelian, and agate, were cut on a rotating wheel and drill fed with abrasive powder. Because the design is carved in reverse, a seal pressed into wax or clay leaves the figure in relief and the right way round. Seals like this one authenticated letters, sealed contracts and storerooms, and declared their owner's identity and loyalties. Choosing Hermes with his purse was a practical wish for profitable dealings, carried on the hand. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. Item # 204679

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