DESCRIPTION:

The largest part of the mosaic decorating a small room, identified as a bedroom, in the southwest corner of the "Villa of Theseus" is covered with a colorful and exceptionally intricate geometric pattern. Unfortunately, the central panel is highly damaged, but the scene remains recognizable. It depicts the sea voyage of the sea god Poseidon with his wife Amphitrite, a particularly popular theme in Roman mosaics. The couple sits on a sea monster, possibly their son Triton. Poseidon holds his trident and wears a halo around his head, symbolizing his divine supremacy. The nearly nude Amphitrite sits in his lap, tenderly stroking his beard with her right hand. Above their heads, two small, winged Cupids fly, holding a long banner billowing in the sea wind.