Roman Miniature Standing Herm

1st century BC-1st century AD. A bronze statuette in the form of a youthful female herm figure, a Greek short cap (kausia) upon the head, a long chiton tunic adorning the midsection, socket to base. See similar miniatures Herms in the National Museum Budapest, inventory 93.19.A; see also Mattusch, C.C., 'Two Bronze Herms,' in Art Journal, 54:2, 1995, pp.53-59. 83 grams, 90mm (3 1/2"). German collection before 2000. Collection of Mr D.H., formed in UK, from the EU art market. Property of a Surrey gentleman. Hermes (Roman Mercury), the messenger god, who was also the protector of travellers, communities and houses, entrances and exits, as well as flocks, gave the name to this type of monuments. Large herms were typically set up along thoroughfares and boundaries, at gates, and also at tombs. Small herms like this one were probably used for domestic use (Lares) or offered to the gods as votive gifts.
Condition Report: Very fine condition.