Hermes is a luxury brand that is known for its high-end fashion accessories and clothing. The brand has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century, and while it is commonly associated with Greek mythology due to the use of the iconic Hermes emblem, the question remains – is Hermes a Greek brand? Let’s take a closer look at the origins of the brand and find out.
What is Hermes?
Hermes is a French luxury fashion house that was founded in 1837 by Thierry Hermes. The brand started as a harness workshop in Paris, producing high-quality leather goods for European noblemen. Over time, the brand expanded its product range to include handbags, scarves, and other accessories.
The Hermes Emblem
One of the most recognizable symbols of the Hermes brand is its emblem – a carriage with a horse. This emblem has led many people to believe that Hermes is a Greek brand since it resembles the chariot of the mythical god Hermes. However, this is not entirely true.
The emblem was actually inspired by an engraving that Thierry Hermes found in his father’s workshop. The engraving depicted an ornate carriage with horses that was used during parades in 18th-century France. Thierry was so fascinated by this engraving that he decided to adopt it as his company’s emblem.
The Mythical Connection
While the Hermes emblem may not have been directly inspired by Greek mythology, there are still some connections between the brand and the mythical god after which it was named.
In Greek mythology, Hermes was known as the god of commerce and trade, as well as the messenger of the gods. He was often depicted wearing winged sandals and carrying a caduceus – a staff with two snakes wrapped around it.
The winged sandals are believed to be the inspiration behind one of Hermes’ most iconic products – the Hermes Kelly bag. The bag was originally designed to be a saddlebag for horse riders and was later redesigned as a handbag. The distinctive shape of the bag, with its curved top and wing-like side flaps, is said to be inspired by the winged sandals of Hermes.
Conclusion
So, is Hermes a Greek brand? While the brand is not directly connected to Greek mythology, it does have some mythical connections through its use of the Hermes emblem and inspiration from the god himself. However, at its core, Hermes is a French luxury fashion house that has been producing high-quality leather goods for over 180 years.