Banded agate ring stone

Unknown

3rd–2nd century BCE · Agate, banded · Greek and Roman Art

This banded agate ring stone represents Hermes wearing a chlamys, a winged cap and holding the kerykeion. The god is pulling a bearded figure from the ground, presumably a soul emerging from the shades. The image has been interpreted as a representation of Hermes in his role of Psychopompos (guide of the souls), escorting the souls of the dead to the banks of the River Styx.

Artist

Unknown

Date

3rd–2nd century BCE

Medium

Agate, banded

Culture

Italic

Department

Greek and Roman Art

Credit line

Gift of John Taylor Johnston, 1881