This very beautiful and refined mosaic was made in the second century AD Using small square tiles placed in place with great accuracy, with a precision not usual at that historical moment.
These are of different materials: obtained from limestone for the black and white color, terracotta for the red and greenish ones, rarer stones and marbles for the green, yellow, purple red, dark red, old pink, gray, brown and pink colors. .
The decoration is inserted in a band that surrounds it on all sides, with a simple braid made with darker shades on the outside which then fade in the internal parts in lighter shades.
In the background enclosed by this border, a rose window stands out with a rather complex central motif with four buds alternating with heart-shaped leaves within a motif identified as a velarium (the canvas cover used in amphitheaters to protect spectators from the sun), which here it is rendered in volume and lightness thanks to a skilful and refined play of shades. The remaining space is filled with geometric shapes (rhombuses and rectangles) connected to each other and with the central motif by very thin linear spirals, peltas and flower elements. Inside the geometric shapes there is the representation of two opposing lotus buds.
The type of elegant and very lively decoration thanks to the prevalence of sinuous lines gives the idea of an embroidery on stone.
Title: Mosaic floor in polychrome tiles with central velarium
Author: Anonymous
Date: II sec. d.C.
Technique: Mosaic
Displayed in: MArTA - National Archaeological Museum of Taranto
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