Mercury

Theodor de Bry, after Sebald Beham

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a classical figure surrounded by cherubic forms and symbols. The central figure is depicted with a winged helmet and a staff known as a caduceus. This character stands prominently with a majestic posture, blowing a horn or similar instrument. Two smaller, cherubic beings accompany the figure — one to the left with a mythical half-fish and half-human form holding a flower and a small caduceus, while the other to the right embraces another child-like figure. They all float amidst stylized clouds. Above the main figure, a banner unfurls with the inscription "MERCVRIVS," and below is written “MERCATORVM FAVTOR."