THE ARCHAEOLOGY OF
Roman Domestic Religion
PP573
House of Apollo (VI. vii. 23)
Cult Space Type:
Shrine
Date:
79 A.D.
Features:
Nymphaeum, Wall Painting
Associated
Cult Spaces:
PP257
Room function:
Courtyard
Description:
Located to the west of the tablinum on the south wall of a courtyard was a nymphaeum. This consisted of an unusual pyramidal fountain structure, which no longer survives. Water was said to have travelled down the structure via marble stairs, with short marble pillars surrounding the structure at even intervals. Two herms were also present. The southern wall above the structure was said to have been painted with garden motifs of trees and birds, including ducks, swans, and peacocks. This mural also included a painting of a statue of Diana. Today only sections depicting garden trellising and flower garlands are visible.
References:
Fiorelli 1875, p. 116; Photographs from Pompeii in Pictures, 2006
Image reference:
Anonymous (Date Unknown) (Via Pompeii in Pictures)