The Nile Mosaic of Palestrina: Early Evidence of Egyptian Religion in Italy (Religions in the Graeco-roman World) - Hardcover

Meyboom, Paul G P

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 9004101373 ISBN 13: 9789004101371

Publisher: Brill Academic Pub, 1994

Synopsis

The famous Nile Mosaic of Palestrina, ancient Praeneste in central Italy, dating to c. 100 BC, is one of the earliest large mosaics which have been preserved from the classical world. It presents a unique, comprehensive picture of Egypt and Nubia. The interpretation of the mosaic is disputed, suggestions ranging from an exotic decoration to a topographical picture or a religious allegory.
The present study demonstrates that the mosaic depicts rituals connected with Isis and Osiris and the yearly Nile flood. The presence of these Egyptian religious scenes at Praeneste can be explained by the assimilation of Isis and Fortuna, the tutelary goddess of Praeneste, and by the interpretation of the mosaic as a symbol of divine providence.

About this title

About the Author:

P.G.P. Meyboom is assistant professor of Classical Archaeology at Leiden University.

Review:

"Meyboom's monograph remains an indispensible resource for study of the Nile Mosaic at Praeneste. Students will benefit from the clear manner in which arguments are presented, and scholars familiar with these arguments still have much to gain from sifting through the goldmine of endnotes. It remains highly recommended."
Joshua J. Thomas, University of Oxford, Bryn Mawr Classical Review 2017.06.45

About this edition

• Publisher: Brill Academic Pub
• Publication date: 1994
• ISBN 10: 9004101373
• ISBN 13: 9789004101371
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 502