FOURTH century Roman mosaics discovered in Hampshire are at risk of leaving the UK.
Export bars have been placed on two geometric and patterned Roman mosaics dating back to the fourth century AD that are at risk of leaving the United Kingdom.
The two sections of Roman mosaics were discovered at a Roman villa at Fullerton during excavation as part of a continuing exploration of the upper Test Valley and in 1904, the two Roman mosaics were uncovered and moved to Fullerton Manor.
The two mosaics both have unique defining characteristics. One shows what is believed to be a ‘running pelta’ design in which a series of crescent-shaped small shields are arranged in a geometric pattern full of flow and energy.
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The second mosaic shows geometric designs created also using purplish-brown bands of tiles set against a white background. The design consists of two separate elements, a bold design similar to a simplified city wall and a simple stonework pattern of alternating rectangles.
Excavation established that the mosaics derived from a narrow corridor linking the east and west sides of the villa, and from a square room at its northern end.
Arts minister Sir Chris Bryant said: "These mosaics dating back to the fourth century provide a rare insight into the local history of Hampshire during Roman Britain, shaping our understanding of life in the countryside during this period.
"I hope placing an export bar on these unique Roman mosaics means a UK buyer can be found so that the public can continue to have opportunities to learn about our country’s rich history and to enjoy these mosaics for generations to come.”
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The minister’s decision follows the advice of the reviewing committee on the export of works of art and objects of cultural interest.
Committee member Tim Pestell said: "Few things are as readily associated with the Romans as mosaics, those patterned floors that decorated their villas.
"Made of thousands of tiny blocks of stone called tesserae laid together to create patterns or figural scenes, they conjure up a sophisticated lifestyle in graceful houses, where the rich displayed their wealth and power.
"Although many have been revealed through excavations in Britain, the number that survive intact is tiny. The survival of two stretches of mosaic that were excavated from a Roman villa in Hampshire is therefore remarkable.
"With an export bar placed on these mosaics, I sincerely hope this opportunity can be taken."
The decision on the export licence application for the geometric pelta pattern mosaic and the geometric monochrome mosaics will be deferred for a period ending on February 19, 2025 inclusive.
At the end of the first deferral period owners will have a consideration period of 15 Business Days to consider any offer(s) to purchase one or both the mosaics.
The geometric pelta pattern mosaic is set at the recommended price of £380,000 (plus VAT of £76,000 which can be reclaimed by an eligible institution). The geometric monochrome mosaics are set at the recommended price of £180,000 (plus VAT of £36,000 which can be reclaimed by an eligible institution).
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