MOSAICO: A Timeless Art

By Lucy Cullen

“MOSAICO: Italian code of a timeless art” is currently on display at Dupont Underground. Developed in partnership with the Embassy of Italy, the exhibit displays art from the Farnesina Collection, the collection of 20^th and 21^st-century Italian art held in the headquarters of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. “MOSAICO” takes visitors on a journey across Italy, from the northern city of Ravenna to the ancient sunken city of Baiae.

The exhibit is split into six sections, each highlighting art from different areas of Italy. Beginning in Rome, the mosaics on display are from the Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian and the Basilica of Saint Praxedes. These masterpieces provide insight into the significance of Christian mosaic art and the spiritual impact of the stories they convey to viewers. Featured in the same section is art from Pompei, with mosaics from the House of the Faun, a palace from the 2^nd century BC. The tesserae—or small blocks of stone—depict a scene from the Battle of Issus, in which Alexander the Great defeats Darius III of Persia.

Many of the featured mosaics on display are of religious scenes. The floor mosaic of the Patriarchal Basilica of Saint Mary of the Assumption from the city of Aquileia depicts a range of Christian images, such as the Resurrection of Jesus or the biblical story of Jonah. Additionally, the mosaic in the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia from Ravenna reflect Paleo Christian and Byzantine art. The range of bright colors and golden surfaces reflect the belief of an otherworldly, spiritual dimension.

A floor mosaic from the Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina depicts customs and traditions from everyday Roman life. There are scenes from hunts, daily aristocratic habits and even the entertainment of female athletes—known as the mosaic of the “Gymnasts.” The mosaics from the underwater city of Baiae can only be admired by diving underwater; however, when revealed, they reflect the lives of the Roman aristocracy and the ancient streets they filled.

Built from small pieces of colored stones and tiles, Italian mosaic art sheds light on ancient communities and cities and their daily lives, traditions and religious beliefs. It is a rich yet unappreciated art form that traces over 2,000 years of Italian history. “MOSAICO” spotlights the ornate symbols and imagery of ancient mosaic art and provides the audience with a glimpse into those who admired it.

“MOSAICO” is open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. until Jan. 26. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door, and all guests are free on Fridays, sponsored by the Embassy of Italy.

A photo gallery from the exhibit can be found below. Photos by Kate O’Brian.

tagsart exhibitsdc art exhibitsDupont CircleDupont UndergroundMosaico