Abstract
This article draws inspiration from Jean-Pierre Darmon’s belief that the figural mosaics decorating Roman private homes often have an educational function, serving as a form of paideia and representing cherished social and cultural values of the classical tradition. That notion is applied to a mosaic embellishing the Villa Armira located near Ivailovgrad in southeastern Thrace (modern Bulgaria) and dated to the 2nd century AD. The pavement depicts very lifelike portraits of three family members in addition to numerous mythological subjects. The latter helped inform the children represented about important social and moral concepts reflected in the mosaic imagery, thereby preparing them for future adult life. Besides making a detailed description of the pavement in question, the article draws comparisons with mosaics from other imperial Roman provinces. This pavement is an outstanding example of the assimilation of Greco-Roman culture in the region of Thrace during the High Empire.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.