What Did Hermes Look Like?

Hermes, the Greek god of commerce, thieves, travelers, and sports, is one of the most recognizable figures in Greek mythology. He was worshipped by the Greeks as a god of fertility, luck, and wealth.

However, have you ever wondered what Hermes looked like? In this article, we will explore his physical appearance and discuss the various depictions of Hermes in art and literature.

Physical Appearance

Hermes was often depicted as a young man with a slim build. He had short hair and wore a winged hat called a petasos.

This hat allowed him to fly swiftly from one place to another. In addition to his hat, Hermes also wore winged sandals called talaria that helped him move quickly.

Hermes was often depicted holding a caduceus – a staff with two snakes wrapped around it. The caduceus was an important symbol of Hermes’ authority as the messenger of the gods. He also carried a purse or pouch containing various items such as money or messages.

Depictions in Art

Throughout history, artists have depicted Hermes in various ways. One of the most famous depictions of Hermes is the statue created by Praxiteles in the 4th century BCE. The statue shows Hermes holding Dionysus as an infant and is known for its idealized depiction of male beauty.

In addition to sculptures, Hermes has been featured in many paintings throughout history. One well-known painting is “Mercury” by Diego Velázquez which depicts Hermes with his winged hat and sandals, holding his caduceus.

Hermes in Literature

Hermes is often mentioned in Greek literature as well. In Homer’s epic poem “The Iliad”, he is described as swift-footed and cunning. In “The Odyssey”, he plays an important role in helping Odysseus return home.

In addition to Greek literature, Hermes appears in many works of modern literature such as the Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan. In this series, Hermes is depicted as the father of one of the main characters and plays an important role in guiding him on his journey.

Conclusion

Overall, Hermes was depicted as a youthful and athletic figure with wings on his feet and head. He was often shown holding a caduceus and wearing a petasos hat. Throughout history, artists have depicted him in various ways, and he continues to be a popular figure in literature today.