Caupona de FortunatusMosaic Inscription

This mosaic from the Caupona of Fortunatus in Ostia Antica features a black krater—a vessel for mixing wine—flanked by the word BIBE and the phrase Dicit Fortunatus: Vinum cratera quot sitis, bibe, meaning Fortunatus says: Drink as much wine from the krater as your thirst desires. Positioned near a public fountain, it invited passersby to refresh themselves, reflecting the social and communal role of taverns in ancient Roman life.