Villa of Livia: Dynamic Enhancement Through Floor Mosaics

Terabramians, Renita

Item

Villa of Livia: Dynamic Enhancement Through Floor Mosaics

Terabramians, Renita

Abstract

The ancient imperial Villa of Livia, situated along the Via Flaminia in Rome, stands as an archaeological marvel believed to be the ancient residence of Livia Drusilla, wife of Emperor Augustus. The villa is mentioned in the writings of Suetonius, Cassio Dio, and Pliny. According to Pliny, there is a poetic legend about its foundation relating how an eagle dropped a hen with a sprig of laurel in its beak in Livia's lap, inspiring the role of the villa during the early principate. While existing research has predominantly focused on the villa's wall paintings and archeological findings, this thesis aims to shift attention to the often-overlooked black and white floor mosaics that adorn the entirety of the space. It examines the intricate patterns of these mosaic designs, specifically exploring how they articulate space, evoke movement, and engage the visitor. Constructed between 30 and 25 BC, with subsequent modifications in the Flavian and Severan periods, the Villa of Livia presents a composite statement of the engagement with space and mosaic designs from the different periods. Such designs range from complex patterned thresholds demarcating spatial transitions to borders that center prestige rooms with static viewers, and mosaics that offer a nuanced expression of spatial dynamics. This study emphasizes the significance of these mosaics in light of the evolving artistic trends of the time. Examining these mosaic elements closely, this research contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the Villa of Livia's spatial experience, treating it not only as a built environment but also as a space with potential vistas. Employing visual observations and comparisons with contemporaneous works, this study addresses a gap in existing scholarship regarding pavement mosaics by further expanding on the intricate relationship between art, architecture, and the sensory experience of ancient Roman villas.