Unswept Floor Mosaic (c. 2nd century AD), One Minute Art #art #mosaic

Unswept Floor Mosaic
Heraklitos
(2nd century AD)

There are several Roman mosaics in this style, usually but not always on a white background.

This one was installed in Rome sometime in the 2nd century in an upper-class home, where diners would’ve tossed their food scraps on the floor.

Like most Roman art motifs, unswept floor designs were inspired by earlier Greek models. This one was even signed by Heraklitos, a Greek artist.

The white background allows the use of slightly darker tiles to indicate shadows cast from a non-existent light source.

Although the items appear randomly scattered, one can see a certain order to their layout.

Many of the items are identifiable—cherries, bones, figs, even a mouse—but some are less obvious.

Part of the purpose was also to show off the range of foods eaten at this elite residence.

Today, this elaborate mosaic has been reassembled for display at the Gregoriano Profano museum in the Vatican.

Do you think it would be cool to duplicate this motif in your kitchen today?

Видео Unswept Floor Mosaic (c. 2nd century AD), One Minute Art #art #mosaic канала Jon Lott