Bacchus Mosaic from Antioch (325-330 CE)

3D Model

Economic prosperity in the city of Antioch, a vital agricultural and commercial center at the crossroads of the Roman Empire and strategically located on the N-S-E-W axis of the silk road, created an extensive middle-class population that was wealthy, sophisticated, cosmopolitan, and of course, liked a good party. Villas in this region were often opulently decorated with stunning wall frescos and floor mosaics, like this medallion of the wine god Bacchus. This floor mosaic was initially located in the entrance hall of a Roman villa as part of a much larger floor that included the similar mosaic also posted to this feed. As guests walked across the floor mosaic, these images of the wine god Bacchus and his “Thiasus,” or retinue of dedicated followers, would have created an atmosphere of wine-drinking revelry and merriment! Such a mosaic would suggest to guests that you enjoyed an excellent raucous dinner party with wine and all the delicious accompaniments!