Schip met Mercurius en Amphion c. 1635

This anonymous engraving at the Rijksmuseum depicts a ship carrying Amphion, led by Mercurius. Mercurius, or Hermes, stands prominently at the ship's prow, holding his caduceus, a symbol of commerce, negotiation, and transitions. The caduceus is ancient, appearing in various forms across cultures. Its entwined snakes, often associated with healing and duality, echo motifs found in ancient Greek and Roman art, where it symbolized balance and harmony. But even earlier, similar serpentine symbols were associated with healing goddesses. Consider the emotional and psychological impact of this symbol: it invokes a sense of trust and guidance, yet also carries a subconscious reminder of the delicate balance between opposing forces. The image engages our collective memory, hinting at the ever-changing nature of meaning. It is a powerful symbol of both the conscious and subconscious. Thus, the caduceus evolves—reappearing across time, shifting contexts, yet eternally resonating with our deepest understanding of commerce, health, and universal equilibrium.