De la nécessité d’identifier précisément le décor géométrique d’une mosaïque. Une étude de cas

Abstract

In published articles, the description of geometric mosaics is generally confined to the Décor’s typology, which is of course indispensable but not always precise enough to identify their geometric properties accurately. However these properties allow an access to the craftsmen’s knowledge in that domain, and beyond that to their professional gestures. Undertaking a sharp geometric study is the only way to reach this goal, but it requires the knowledge of an extensive catalogue of theoretical models including, together with the ‘regular’ types, approximate versions whose implementation was frequently more economical (regarding involved knowledge, time and finally cost). For the chosen example (a mosaic from the Roman villa of Milreu (Portugal), of which only a few fragments remain), the regular geometrical model is confronted with an alternative model already itemized. Then some easily achieved observations about angles and alignments make it possible to decide between the two models, with the possibility of restoring the setting as a consequence.

Keywords

• typology
• geometric mosaic
• model
• check
• restitution