What Was on Hermes Feet?

The Mythical Hermes

Hermes, the Greek god of commerce, was known for his swift movements and agility. He was often depicted with wings on his feet, making him the fastest among all the gods.

But what exactly was on Hermes’ feet Let’s take a closer look.

The Talaria

The answer lies in a pair of sandals called Talaria. These sandals were said to have been made by Hephaestus, the god of blacksmiths and metalworking. The Talaria had wings attached to them which enabled Hermes to fly or run at an incredible speed.

Symbolism of the Talaria

The Talaria not only represented Hermes’ speed but also symbolized his status as a messenger between the gods and mortals. It was believed that wearing these sandals granted the user with swiftness and grace, making them more persuasive in communication.

Depictions of Hermes’ Talaria

Many ancient Greek artworks depict Hermes wearing the Talaria. One such example is a statue called “Hermes with the Infant Dionysus” by Praxiteles. In this statue, we can see Hermes holding Dionysus while wearing his winged sandals.

The Winged Sandals in Modern Culture

The Talaria has become an iconic symbol in modern culture as well. It has been featured in various forms of media, including movies, comics, and video games. For instance, in Marvel Comics, Mercury (the Roman equivalent of Hermes) is depicted wearing winged sandals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, what was on Hermes’ feet were a pair of winged sandals called Talaria that symbolized his swiftness and communication skills as a messenger between gods and mortals. The Talaria has become an iconic symbol in both ancient Greek mythology and modern pop culture.