Three special windows are metamorphosed into unique micro-habitats equal to elaborate oneiric mythological scenes. Populated with items that emphasise the relation between ancient iconography and object aestheticism, every installation is simultaneously complimented and supported by the presence of Hermès creations. Constructed with diverse materials such as iron and plaster, Socratous’s objects engage in an active dialogue with those of Hermès and generate a stimulating and thought-provoking narrative.

Archaeological excavations brought to light objects related to everyday life, very closely associated with animal iconography. The iconic Greek rhyton introduced in Greece from Persia was a conical container modelled after the shape of an animal’s head (bull, lion, boar, horse, dog), normally made of terracotta (or metal in some cases) and painted over elaborately. It was either used as a normal vessel for people to drink from or as a device to pour liquids via a sophisticated drainage system during a ceremony or a ritual. The consumption of wine which was typically linked with the use of rhyton received a heavy symbolism in ancient Greece and was parallelised with god Dionysus and his archetypal image of indestructible life.

The exuberant participation of animals –now transformed into objects in Socratous’s story– enunciates their role in the expressive mode of Hermès through its innumerable patterns and scenes emerging throughout its history. Criss-crossing between the domains of the imaginary and the real, the artist indulges viewers in a playful yet mystical atmosphere, where objects come to life.

At the same time, the limitless human imagination that always integrates zoomorphic representations into everyday life suddenly takes the shape of three-dimensional works that gradually evolve into ritualistic artefacts.