A monumental jigsaw puzzle composed of thousands of ancient Roman wall plaster fragments has been completed, revealing stunning frescoes that date back over 2,000 years. The discovery, made in central London’s Southwark area, showcases beautifully painted details of musical instruments, birds, flowers, and fruit on at least 20 walls of a luxurious Roman villa.
Dating back to the first or second century AD, the villa is believed to have been home to a wealthy family or a hotel for rich travelers. The frescoes are thought to be the work of highly skilled painters who traveled throughout the Roman Empire, taking on large commissions and leaving their mark on Britain and Europe.
The team from Museum of London Archaeology (Mola) spent months carefully examining each piece, assembling what Han Li described as “the world’s most difficult jigsaw puzzle.” The fragile plaster fragments presented a significant challenge due to their fragility and limited number of reassembly attempts before damage occurred.
The frescoes provide valuable insights into the affluence of the area where they were found, which is being referred to as the “Beverly Hills of Roman London.” Clues about the artists include the presence of a Latin phrase, Fecit, meaning “has made this,” on one fragment. However, the piece containing the artist’s name remains missing.
The site also yielded other significant discoveries, including a stunning mosaic and Roman cemetery, which shed light on the growth and development of London during the Roman period. The location outside the central hub offers a glimpse into the city’s expansion and the Romans’ commitment to establishing it as a place to settle.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5y5w1ldz8do