Special Exhibitions
Antioch Exhibition
|
|
Special Exhibitions |
|
Antioch Exhibition |
|
|
The Roman House In contrast to modern American taste, the well-appointed Roman house in Antioch would feel more open and minimally furnished. However, a consistently high level of craftsmanship is evident throughout the Roman house, from the largest mosaic to the smallest dining utensil. Great expense was lavished on large mosaic floors that would demonstrate the homeowner's knowledge of Greek mythology and impart a mood of luxury. Walls were vividly painted with frescoes, both abstract and figural. Wall decorations also made liberal use of colored marble, cut and arranged in pleasing patterns.Elaborate fountains (nymphaea) were strategically positioned so that diners could enjoy the sight and sound of water dancing in a stone basin surrounded by sculpture and lush plants. There would also have been large textiles used as curtains, hung between columns or suspended as room dividers to add privacy and insulation. Light was furnished by windows and openings in the ceiling, and by a wide variety of oil lamps. Many of the typical items of furniture for the Roman house find modern counterparts. Couches (klinai) were used for dining or sleeping. Various tables served a number of functions: sideboards, small tables for the presentation of food, and tables with tripod legs. Wooden chests of different sizes and designs contained linens and other textiles, and valuable household objects such as silverware, glassware, and jewelry. Page 4 of 6 | On the next page: Worship in the City |
|||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||
