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THE ARCHAEOLOGY OF
Roman Domestic Religion

HC050
IV. 17-18 (Bar of Priapus)
Cult Space Type:
Cult Painting




Date:
79 A.D.
Features:
Wall painting
Associated
Cult Spaces:
-
Room Function:
Commercial space
Description:
On the northern wall of the shop space was a cult painting. This scene consisted of a depiction of Priapus, a large round-bellied dolium, and a female figure holding a tintinnabulum (windchime) and a purse. Mairui notes that these are all emblems to protect against the evil eye. The painting was carried out on a white background with all of the figures being painted in red. While not the typical figural scene, this should be considered part of domestic cult as it is indicative of the owner’s beliefs. The painting is badly preserved today.
References:
Mairuri 1977, p. 59-60; Wallace Hadrill 1994, pp. 156, 201.
Image reference:
Heese 2019
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