What is illustrated in the scene representing Commerce?

In the scene representing Commerce, the portrayal of Mercury giving gold to Robert Morris highlights significant historical themes associated with trade and finance in early America. Mercury, the Roman god associated with commerce, wealth, and communication, symbolizes the flow of trade and the exchange of goods and currency. By depicting him interacting with Robert Morris, who was a key financier of the American Revolution and played a vital role in establishing the country's financial systems, this illustration emphasizes the critical relationship between governance, economics, and the facilitation of commerce.

The focus on Mercury indicates the importance of not just the material aspects of commerce, such as money, but also the ideas of intelligence and strategic planning in trade. This choice encapsulates the connection between divine inspiration and human enterprise, underlining how commerce was viewed as a vital foundation for the nation's prosperity and growth. Thus, the scene not only represents the act of trade but also captures the spirit and aspirations of a developing nation seeking to establish its economic identity.