THE ARCHAEOLOGY OF
Roman Domestic Religion
PP588
VI. xvii (Ins. Occ.). 42
Cult Space Type:
Shrine
Date:
79 A.D.
Features:
Mosaic, Niche, Nymphaeum
Associated
Cult Spaces:
PP322, PP323
Room function:
Triclinium/Dining Room
Description:
Located on the east wall of the garden level triclinium was a nymphaeum. The nymphaeum was very elaborate, having an aedicula shape and being entirely decorated in mosaic. It would have overlooked the ocean. In the centre was a large apsed niche. The roof of the niche depicted a shell, while the body of the niche had three panels, the side two of which possessed elaborate mosaic garden scenes of trees/shrubs. At the bottom of the central section was a panel with aquatic birds (ducks). It was from this central section that water flowed from a series of steps to the pond below. The different panels of the mosaic were bordered by red mosaic stripes.
References:
PPM Vol VI 1996, pp. 44-145
Image reference:
Pompeii in Pictures 2009