Marine Thiasos

This black-and-white mosaic from the Terme di Buticoso (Baths of Buticoso) (2nd c.) shows a marine thiasos (procession) with Neptune, Amphitrite, sea horses, and fantastical sea creatures in lively motion across the floor. Such scenes associated bathing with the life-giving power of water and the favor of sea deities. The imagery turns the bath complex into an immersive maritime realm under divine protection.