Large Mercury Statue

This Mercury statue is a classic symbol of the Roman god of commerce. Merchants prayed to him in order to get business. The god Mercury was the son of Jupiter and Maia and was also known as the official messenger of the gods. It is said that he used winged sandals to help him get around faster. Mercury was first worshipped in 495 BC when a temple was dedicated to him near Circus Maximus. He was often depicted with a money bag to indicate his work as the god of commerce. The Roman Mercury was also said to have had a caduceus, which is two serpents coiled around a staff with an orb at the top, and a winged helmet. His name is derived from the Latin word "mercari" which means: having to do with deal or trade. His sacred animal was the chicken and he is sometimes depicted with it nearby. The festival that is dedicated to him is celebrated on May 15 each year..