Mercury

The Italian Centre, John Street, Glasgow

The two Mercury statues on the roof of the Italian Centre, John Street, Glasgow, were placed there to symbolize different aspects of the Roman god’s role—one representing 'art' and the other commerce'.

Designed by Alexander Stoddart: Scotland’s leading neoclassical sculptor, responsible for much of the statuary in the Italian Centre.

This statue holds a money pouch, symbolizing commerce and financial prosperity.

They stand side by side on the John Street frontage of the Italian Centre, visually balancing the building’s neoclassical palazzo-inspired design.