Garden Houses Flashcards
When was it built?
Early 2nd century AD 123-125 (brick stamps give date)
What was the layout?
The insula was extremely irregular in shape, a symmetrical rectangular open court was created by adjusting the width and shape of the building
The building was 2 blocks with 4 storeys and 32 flats
A large ornamental gateway in the east marked the entrance- the big arch was opus testaceum and had pilasters on each side also had a travertine step
Garden surrounded by 2 blocks of flats
Water system outside the garden houses
There were a number of modifications- earthquake and fire caused too much damage and major changes had to be made- upper floors had fallen in and had to be replaced
Evidence of Limescale channels leading up the walls shows upper floors of apartments had water- lower apartments would have used the basins in the courtyard
What was the design?
Oldest wall painting from 130-140 AD- helped find specific date of house
Top floors of apartments were more prestigious by having bright colourful 2nd style paintings, opus reticulatum walls and good quality monochrome mosaics on the floors with guilloches
Mosaics had different intricate designs
Top floor had huge bay windows
Why was it built?
After the new harbours there was an increase in trade and population
