Stone mosaics
Reference articles are in English.
Roman mosaic floor panel with the head of Spring, second century CE. The recorded materials include stone, tile and glass. The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Source
Description
Stone mosaics compose images or patterns from separate units, including cut tesserae and pebbles. Size, spacing and direction contribute to the design alongside colour. Mosaics can be made directly in place or prepared for later installation. A walked-on floor and a wall panel require different supporting construction.
History
Pebble mosaics preceded the widespread use of cut tesserae in the ancient Mediterranean. Roman mosaics developed varied geometric and figurative designs, including floors assembled from coloured stone and other materials.
Commissioning
For new work, the design, palette, scale, backing and installation should be defined together. An existing mosaic should be assessed before lifting or replacement. Its bedding and original setting can hold evidence important to its conservation.