Gallo-Roman Bronze Mercury Statuette
1st-3rd century A.D. Modelled standing nude with stylised anatomical detailing, stylised wings on the head, right hand shrouded beneath a flattened area with horizontal grooves holding the purse, the other clenched into a fist. See Rolland, H., Bronzes Antiques De Haute Provence, Paris, 1965, item 90; Boucher, S., Recherches sur les bronzes figures de Gaule pre-romaine et romaine, 1976, pl.35, no.163, for comparable examples.43 grams, 59 mm (2 1/4 in.). Acquired 1970s. Ex UK collection. Property of a Portsmouth, UK gentleman. Likely an ex-voto figure representing Mercury (Greek Hermes) holding a purse, clearly offered by someone to ask or give thanks for successful vows.