By Deena Elsheikh - Canada
Researchers Discover Hidden Insights in The Alexander Mosaic: Its 2 Million Tiny Stones Originated From Across the Ancient World
One of the most renowned artworks of the ancient world serves as a visual representation of the Roman Empire's vast influence.
When Mount Vesuvius engulfed Pompeii in ash in A.D. 79, it preserved one of antiquity’s most significant artifacts: an extensive mosaic depicting Alexander the Great's victory over the Persian king Darius III at the Battle of Issus. This intricate artwork, containing over 1.9 million tesserae (the small stones forming the mosaic), was uncovered in 1831 at the House of the Faun and has fascinated historians and archaeologists for nearly two centuries. Recent research has revealed additional layers to its story — its tesserae originate from a remarkable array of quarries across Europe and North Africa.
Alexander’s Victories
The Alexander Mosaic often considered “the most important mosaic of the Roman age,” portrays the Macedonian army’s triumph at the Battle of Issus in 333 B.C., near the modern Turkish-Syrian border. Among the surviving scenes is perhaps the most iconic portrait of Alexander, depicted in delicate shades of pink. The mosaic, believed to be a Roman copy of an earlier Hellenistic painting by Philoxenus of Eretria, illustrates a critical moment in the battle. At its center is Alexander, youthful and resolute, leading his forces into the Persian ranks. Darius, overwhelmed by confusion, is shown retreating with an outstretched hand, a gesture combining desperation and command. Darius left behind his mother, wife, and children, who were captured by Alexander.
Following Issus, Alexander secured key cities along the Mediterranean coast, including Tyre and Gaza, thereby cutting off Persian naval power and ensuring secure supply lines for future campaigns. Alexander’s campaign accelerated with unstoppable momentum after Issus, leading him to Egypt, where he was welcomed as a liberator from Persian rule and crowned Pharaoh. The victory at Issus also paved the way for his celebrated triumph at Gaugamela in 331 BCE, effectively sealing the fate of the Persian Empire. This artwork captures not only history but, like Alexander, spans diverse geographies.
A Historical Puzzle
In a recent restoration initiative, researchers employed advanced non-invasive technologies. They utilized portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) to determine chemical compositions, infrared thermography (IRT) to detect hidden thermal anomalies, and multispectral imaging to examine surface treatments and tesserae compositions. Raman and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy completed the suite of sophisticated analytical tests. Impressively, all these methods allow an in-depth study of The Alexander Mosaic without physically contacting or disturbing the delicate tesserae.
Scientists categorized the tesserae into four groups based on their composition: carbonate-bearing, silicate-bearing, intermediate (natural and vitreous), and iron-rich, reflecting the materials’ distinct geological origins. For example, white tesserae might come from Italy’s Apuan Alps, while the pink and red tiles suggest ties to Mediterranean marbles and breccias. Green tesserae indicate serpentinites or other stones sourced from Roman-era quarries across the empire.
This logistical chain underscores the expansive reach of the Roman Empire throughout the Mediterranean basin. By the time of its installation in the House of the Faun, artisans had access to materials from far-flung regions.
The Ultimate Goal: Enhanced Conservation
Despite its historical significance, the Alexander Mosaic has deteriorated over time. Previous restorations, which included protective wax coatings and gypsum layers applied during its 19th-century transport to the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, have not aged well, resulting in thin gypsum layers and thermal inconsistencies across the surface.
Infrared thermography identified areas where tesserae had shifted due to environmental stresses. Although concerning, these insights are invaluable for improving ongoing conservation strategies, aiding restorers in mitigating risks while preserving the artwork’s integrity.
For visitors at the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, where the mosaic is currently housed, these findings offer a deeper appreciation of its underlying complexities — showcasing not only the artistry but also the extensive networks that contributed to its creation.
By Deena Elsheikh - Canada
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