Roman Tesserae Floor Mosaic Depicting Ibis and Foliage

Era: 2nd Century AD 

Dimensions: 15” H x 12” W x 3” D 

A rare and truly incredible 2nd century Roman stone floor mosaic or opus tessellatum built of tesserae tiles depicting an ibis grazing through foliage. Although not native to Italy, the Ibis gained deep prominence as the interest, fascination and ultimately appropriation of Egyptian symbolism and points of veneration during the reign of Emperor Hadrian. Of wonderful scale, displayed on contemporary metal easel stand. A rare example in excellent form with beautiful subject. 

Provenance: ex Italian private collection.