Les pavements d’opus signinum

Technique, décor, fonction architecturale

Written by Véronique Vassal

60.0075.60

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Print Book
ISBN: 9781841719085
BAR: S1472
75.60
PDF eBook
ISBN: 9781407329215
BAR: S1472E
60.00
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Description

‘Opus signinum’ is an antique floor-covering technique, especially noted in the Mediterranean area. The technique is based on a waterproof mortar of a mixture of lime, water and tile powder which gives it a reddish colour. This current research focused mainly on the opus signinum process as recorded in the antique literature (especially Vitrivius and Pliny) and then scientific analysis, in order to define the composition of the mortar. Over 100 pavements from Mediterranean countries (5th c BC – 2nd c AD) have been compiled in the catalogue, making it possible to study the ornamental patterns and the various uses the rooms/spaces were put to.