Ancient Roman mosaics are made of small stones, often marble, known as tesserae, which do not fade in light. This makes them a permanent form of art in which the full glory of their original colour and beauty can be seen.
The mosaic above shows particularly beautiful and striking colours and the range of seafoods commonly eaten by the Romans. There were obviously Roman foodies!
Recently discovered mosaics in Sicily show how the Romans lived and there were some surprises such as the bikinis worn by the sportswomen.
This mosaic shows lion hunting - a typically bloody Roman activity.
Almost nothing is known about the craftsmen who made these mosaics. What was their status and outlook?