L Mercury
This Mercury statue is a classic symbol of the
Roman god of commerce. Merchants prayed to him
in order to get good business. The god Mercury
was the son of Jupiter and Maia and was also known
as the official messenger of the gods. It is said
that he used winged sandals to help him get around
faster. Mercury was first worshipped in 495 BC
when a temple was dedicated to him near Circus
Maximus. He was often depicted with a money bag
to indicate his work as the god of commerce. The
Roman Mercury was also said to have had a caduceus,
which is two serpents coiled around a staff with
an orb at the top, and a winged helmet. His name
is derived from the Latin word "mercari"
witch means: having to do with deal or trade.
His sacred animal was the chicken and he is sometimes
depicted with it nearby. The festival that is
dedicated to him is celebrated on May 15 each
year.. |