Ancient Greek Art: Hermes & the Theft of Apollo's Cattle

Infant Hermes, Maia, Apollo & the stolen cattle | Greek vase, Caeretan black figure hydria

"When Hermes saw Apollon in a rage about his cattle, he snuggled down
in his fragrant swaddling-clothes." - Homeric Hymn
to Hermes

T23.1 HERMES & THE THEFT OF APOLLON'S CATTLE

Museum Collection: Musée du Louvre, Paris, France
Catalogue Number: TBA
Beazley Archive Number: N/A
Ware: Caeretan Black Figure
Shape: Hydria
Painter: --
Date: ca 520 BC
Period: Archaic

SUMMARY

Apollon arrives in the cave of Maia to confront her and her infant son Hermes over the theft of his cattle. Hermes lies in his cradle, wrapped in blankets. Zeus steps forward to intervene over their dispute. The cattle themselves, stand hidden in a thicket near the cave.

ARTICLESHermes, Maia, Apollon, Zeus