Palatine Hill Self-researched
Rome, Italy
Artworks
Room of the Masks Frescoes Self-researched
Perspective architectural paintings and theatrical masks in the western rooms of the House of Augustus, representing the Second Style of Roman wall painting. The illusionistic architectural scenes create the impression of views through walls into elaborate stage sets. These frescoes are among the finest surviving examples of Second Style painting, demonstrating the Roman mastery of perspective and trompe-l'oeil techniques.
Apollo with Cithara Fresco Self-researched
A fresco unearthed in 1950 among the excavations of the Scalae Caci depicting Apollo crowned with laurel, seated on a throne, with the cithara in hand, near the omphalos. The work represents the god of music, poetry, and the sun in one of his most characteristic poses as patron of the arts.
Alexamenos graffito Self-researched
A piece of Roman graffiti originally found in a room near the Palatine Hill, now in the Palatine Museum. Often said to be the earliest depiction of Jesus, the image shows a young man worshiping a crucified, donkey-headed figure—believed to be a mocking representation of Christian worship. The Greek inscription reads "Alexamenos worships [his] god."
