Grand Tour Plaster Bust of Hermes

This grand tour plaster bust of Hermes is made in plaster and depicts a section of the iconic ‘Hermes of Praxiteles’ statue by famed sculptor of the classical era, Praxiteles. Also referred to as ‘Hermes Carrying the Infant Dionysus’, the original is crafted in marble and portrays God of Greek mythology Hermes standing with the baby God Dionysus. This plaster Hermes bust is a part reproduction of this iconic statue, depicting Hermes’ head, shoulders and upper torso in exceptional detail with muscular proportions and curled locks. It sits on a painted black socle.

Cast in the early 20th century, this plaster bust is skilfully painted to replicate a marble sculpture.

Hermes and the Infant Dionysus

The original Hermes statue in marble, on which this plaster bust is based, resides at the Archaeological Museum of Olympia in Greece. In the full statue, Hermes right hand is lost. It is thought to have once held a bunch of grapes which he wistfully dangled in front of the infant Dionysus, a God associated with wine and intoxication. The original marble statue is an icon of Greek statuary, making this painted plaster cast a fragment of neoclassical history for a home. It is an excellent stand alone piece, looking striking in an entrance hall, alcove or drawing room as an item of historical interest.

Additional Information

Socle measures H 23 cm x D 23 cm