Sculpture of Mercury discovered in Turkey

Marble statue of Mercury (Greek Hermes), the messenger god and patron of trade, from the Roman Empire (2nd-3rd century CE) was discovered in the ancient city of Aspendos (southern Turkey).

The discovery was made during recent excavations in the nymphaeum. The statue, which was broken into pieces, turned out to be 165 cm tall when put together. The deity depicted has a cape and holds a money purse in his right hand. In his left hand, he holds a caduceus staff, a common symbol in his representations. At his feet, we see a ram, an animal sacrificed so souls could return from the underworld.