Mercury 1566 - 1569

"Mercury" is an engraving by Harmen Jansz. Muller, created between 1566 and 1569. It depicts the Roman god Mercury in his chariot drawn by winged roosters, a detail that may represent the swiftness associated with the messenger god. Below, a group of people are engaged in various activities, perhaps symbolizing Mercury's influence on human endeavors. The scene is richly detailed and exemplifies the characteristic precision of Northern Renaissance engravings. This piece, currently housed in the SMK - Statens Museum for Kunst, provides a glimpse into 16th-century artistic practices and religious imagery.