Beeld van Hermes met het kind Dionysos c. 1890 - 1895

This sculpture of Hermes with the infant Dionysus is held in the Rijksmuseum, and its creator is unknown. This sculpture embodies a complex set of social values and cultural ideals of its time. The portrayal of Hermes as a nude, athletic figure reflects the Greek emphasis on male beauty and physical prowess. Yet, it simultaneously presents a tender, nurturing side, as he cradles the young Dionysus. This combination challenges the traditional, hardened representation of masculinity, hinting at a more nuanced understanding of gender roles. Consider also the dynamic between the two figures: Hermes, a deity associated with boundaries and transitions, and Dionysus, the god of wine, ecstasy, and liberation. The relationship between these figures represents a coming together of order and chaos. This sculpture provides a lens through which to examine the complexities of identity and representation in classical art. It invites us to consider the cultural values embedded within it, and to reflect on how these values continue to shape our own perceptions.