THE ARCHAEOLOGY OF
Roman Domestic Religion
PP591
IX. vii. ? (Unnumbered property bordering IX. vii. 20)
Cult Space Type:
Shrine
Date:
79 A.D.
Features:
Aediucla, Mosaic, Nymphaeum, Niche
Associated
Cult Spaces:
PP592
Room function:
Viridarium/Garden
Description:
Located on the west wall of the garden was a nymphaeum. The nymphaeum had an aedicula form, with a large apsed niche in the centre. The structure was elaborately decorated with fine mosaics. In the apse of the niche was a depiction of Venus bathing in a shell with the help of cupids surrounded by four women and dolphins. Below this, ran a frieze-like section depicting a marine scene of dolphins and nereids. The panels of the body of the niche also contained marine themes, with Sirens, swans, garlands and rhyta, as well as panels depicting two panthers pulling a cart containing the tools of Bacchus. Further cupids and female figures decorated the aedicula façade of the structure. A marble plinth stood in the centre of the structure, on which a statue likely sat. The property is not fully excavated so the wider context of the nymphaeum is uncertain.
References:
Boyce 1937, p. 89 (#446); PPM Vol IX 1999, pp. 782-814.
Image reference:
Lauritsen 2017 (Via Pompeii in Pictures)