Wall painting fragment
Unknown Artist
1st century CE
Medium
Fresco
Dimensions
Overall: 4 7/16 x 3 3/8 x 9/16 in. (11.3 x 8.6 x 1.4 cm)
Classification
Miscellaneous-Paintings
Culture
Roman
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Miss A. Rivier, 1930
Accession Number
30.142.10
Art Historical Context
This delicate wall painting fragment, dating to the 1st century CE, offers a tantalizing glimpse into the vibrant of Roman domestic art. Created by an unknown artist, it hails from the height of the Roman Empire, opulent villas and public spaces were adorned with frescoes to evoke luxury and illusion. Likely salvaged from a wall in a private home or similar setting, this small piece—measuring just 4 7/16 x 3 3/8 inches—exemplifies the everyday artistry that brought ancient interiors to life. Fresco technique, where pigments are applied directly onto wet plaster, was prized for its durability ...