Object of the Month: The Mercury Putto depicts the Roman messenger god as a resting putto seated on ears of grain. An extraordinary representation that symbolically connects mythology, trade, and bread.

The Resting Messenger of the Gods

For centuries, letters have enabled people to exchange thoughts, information, and emotions. In the world of ancient mythology, however, messages were not written but delivered by divine messengers. One of the most well-known among them is the Roman god Mercury, who was also revered as the god of trade, thieves, and in particular the grain trade.

Artist Michael Powolny (1871–1954) depicted Mercury as a putto—a childlike figure—resting on ears of grain. Equipped with a winged hat, a money pouch, a wallet, and a letter, this representation brings together Mercury’s key attributes and symbolically connects communication, trade, and bread.

An extraordinary object at the intersection of mythology, art, and everyday culture – on display at the PANEUM – Wunderkammer des Brotes.

Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (last admission at 3:00 p.m.)