Hippocampus
2022 © Maxim Tabachnik
Roman Mosaic Spearman (Detail)Mosaic of Epictetus Buticosus with Bathing ToolsPolychrome Marble FloorThe Seven Sages: AthenaiosMarble Entrance to Reception RoomHippocampusVenus and Eros with MirrorRiver GodMarine Deity on a Sea CreatureSea Creatures and TridentFountain Basin of the Ninfeo degli ErotiStag Hunt

Hippocampus

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This mosaic detail (2nd c.) from the Terme di Buticoso shows a hippocampus —mythical sea horse with the body of a horse and the tail of a fish. Common in bath decoration, such creatures embodied the fusion of nature and fantasy, evoking Neptune’s dominion and the baths’ intimate link to water.