110
Mosaic Showing a Bird and a Butterfly
Roman Empire; 2nd c.

This well preserved mosaic shows the skill of the Roman craftsmen and the high quality of their work. Over the centuries high quality glass was produced throughout the whole Empire. Metal oxides were added to achieve a greater range of colours and shades and the use of a frame continued. Even articles for everyday use were embellished with applique, gold leaf etc. Mosaics show how widespread the use of glass was for the decorative purposes of applied art.