Mimicking ‘marble’ in Roman Mosaics in Conímbriga (Condeixa-a-Velha – Portugal) Discovered Between 1938 and 1941 in the Time of Professor Vergílio Correia (1888-1944): A Reflection

Abstract

Mosaic that imitates marble, which is the subject of this reflection, is evidence that takes us back to the stylistic currents of several periods of the Roman Era. The representation of this ornamental rock containing rudists harks back to remote geological periods of the Earth’s history. In addition, the way the mosaicist goes about his work, choosing the most elaborate geometric motifs and imitating a kind of ornamental rock with a ‘fossil signature’, reveals contacts, influences and technical resources that only a College of Arts can provide. This museological action is an initiative of the Movement to Promote the Candidature of Conímbriga for inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List, under the programme to link up Conímbriga, Alcabideque, Chão de Lamas, Rabaçal, Santiago da Guarda and Tomar in a single area of interest. This initiative is the outcome of local, national, international and intergenerational cooperation, on a volunteer basis.

Keywords

• conimbriga
• roman mosaics
• low empire
• rudists