New Representations of the Myth of Pelops and Hippodamia in Roman Mosaic Art

Abstract

Although the myth of Pelops and Hippodamia became very popular in the classical mythological tradition, to date, representations of it have been scarce. The few existing examples consisted of the sculptural ensemble of the pediment of the Temple of Zeus at Olympia, some 3rd century sarcophagi, and a number of ceramic vessels. The sole mosaic representation was that held by the Museum of Damascus. However, in recent years, the number of mosaic representations has greatly increased. The discovery of the mosaic at Noheda, featuring, for the first time, the entire narrative sequence of the myth, coupled with the discovery of a possible new specimen, in which Pothos is portrayed as a main character for the first time, not only makes it possible to reconstrue hitherto misinterpreted ancient tapestries, but also furthers understanding of the legend’s iconography in Classical Antiquity.

Keywords

• roman villa
• mosaic
• mythology
• challenge
• quadriga