Dean Ellis (New York, 1920 - 2009) "Roman God Mercury" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Masonite. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Republic of the Marshall Islands 50c Mercury stamp issued July 20, 1994. The planet Mercury orbits so near the Sun that many ancient astronomers -- including Copernicus -- never saw it. Because it appears and disappears at will, it was named after the fleet-footed Roman god Mercury, who the ancients believed influenced travel, trade, thievery and invention. Because of its smaller mass, a 150-pound Earthling visiting Mercury would weigh only 55 pounds. Within the past few years, through the findings of Mariner 10, we've learned a great deal about this planet. It has even been suggested that a mobile space station be established on Mercury's slowly rotating equator to study the solar system and the universe. This remarkable painting depicts Mercury's astrological sign symbolizing youth and good looks, and captures the messenger of the gods leading souls to the nether world with his lighted caduceus. Image Size: 12.75 x 16 in. Overall Size: 15.75 x 18.75 in. Unframed. (B14639)