Curiosities of ancient Rome (Artifact)

Roman silver tray, known as “Corbridge Lanx”. There are scenes from Greek mythology on the vessel. It is located in the British Museum and was found in the 18th century in northern England. Dated to the 4th century CE.

Roman tombstone of Gaius Valerius Taurus. The deceased at the time of death was 30 years old and served 10 years in the 4th Macedonica legion. Object found in Mainz (West Germany) and dated to the 1st century CE.

Roman relief from the tomb of the Haterii family. As can be seen in the bas-relief, the family was involved in construction work. We can see the building and the men operating the crane. The object is dated from the 1st-2nd century CE; now it is in the Vatican Museums in Rome.

Roman mosaic depicting the god Sol on a chariot, surrounded by the signs of the zodiac. Sol was the sun god; identified with the Greek Helios.

Roman fresco depicting Amor (god of love) and Psyche in a loving embrace. The object adorned the House of Terentius Neo (Regio VII, 2, 6) in Pompeii. Currently, the artifact is in the National Archaeological Museum of Naples.

Carved silhouette of a Roman soldier on the tombstone. The object has survived to our times, as the stone was used for construction in London. The presented person is unknown to us by name.

Roman relief from Ostia showing a cutlery shop. Interestingly, the ancient Romans mainly used spoons (furca) and hands in eating; forks and knives were used to cut, prepare and serve dishes. Object dated to the 1st century CE.

Roman fresco depicting a street vendor offering a drink. The object was found in the House of the Dioscuri in Pompeii. Currently, the artifact is in the National Archaeological Museum of Naples.

Roman mosaic showing the triumphant charioteer Polydus on his chariot. The object was found in Trier (western Germany) and dates back to the 3rd century CE.

Extremely interesting mosaic floor from Villa Romana del Casale – a luxury villa in Sicily. The work shows women in bikinis practising sports (weightlifting, discus throwing, running and playing ball). On the left, one of the girls – wearing a toga – hands a crown and a spot of victory.