Hermès Scarf 90 cm – Mosaïque (Les Auriges) – Hugo Grygkar (1954)

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This Hermès scarf entitled Mosaïque (Mosaic), also known as Les Auriges (The Charioteers), features a design inspired by a Roman mosaic of the 3rd century AD (from the villa of the Severi at Baccano, now held in the Palazzo Massimo museum in Rome). Designed by Hugo Grygkar in 1954, it is a rare piece, prized by collectors, that has never been reissued since its creation. Despite slight marks and a few small pulled threads, its condition remains remarkable, which makes its availability on the market particularly exceptional. The hand-rolled hem is intact and there are no holes. Two small stains (see the second-to-last photo). With an Hermès box, which is in good condition. Although it dates from the 1960s, the box is not the original one.

This Hermès scarf draws on the fascinating world of the charioteers, the chariot drivers of Greco-Roman antiquity. They played a central role in chariot racing, one of the most popular spectacles of the time, driving quadrigae – chariots drawn by four horses – in grand competitions in the Roman circuses or on the battlefield.

The charioteer symbolised mastery, speed and strength, qualities in perfect harmony with the equestrian spirit of Hermès. Dressed in a short tunic, sometimes wearing a helmet and armed with a short-handled whip, the charioteer wound the reins around his waist so as not to lose them during the frenzied races. To protect himself from chafing, he wore a corset of leather straps, providing both support and safety.

Chariot races were true spectacles, in which the charioteers competed in teams representing the four seasons:

• Prasina (the Greens): associated with spring
• Russea (the Reds): linked to summer
• Veneta (the Blues): symbols of autumn
• Albata (the Whites): linked to winter

These competitions thrilled the crowds and gave rise to considerable betting. Among the famous charioteers, Diocles stands out in particular. Active for 24 years, he won 1,462 of the 4,257 races he ran, amassing winnings greater than those of the emperor himself, and he remains in history as the greatest charioteer of all time.

This scarf illustrates a world of power and elegance and fits perfectly into the equestrian heritage of Hermès. The symbolism of the horse, ever-present in the house's creations, is enriched here by a tribute to ancient traditions, where art and history come together to elevate this exceptional work.

Size: approx. 90 × 90 cm (36" × 36") – Care label present – 100% silk – Hand-rolled hem – Made in France – Pre-owned Hermès scarf, examined and guaranteed authentic with no time limit by Carré Society