Abstract
This thesis examines the current state of preservation of the 37 opus vermiculatum mosaics found at Pompeii by exploring the history of their excavation, conservation, and preservation. The intriguing dichotomy of the architectural and artistic aspects of the mosaics has added obstacles to their successful treatment and protection. Each event in the lives of the mosaics has affected their preservation including their production and use in the early 1st century B.C.E., their burial resulting from the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 C.E., and every action performed on the mosaics since their rediscovery between 1759 and 1931. The fates of the opus vermiculatum mosaics have been determined by the history and development of excavation, conservation, and preservation techniques. Ten of the mosaics are still in situ, 25 have been moved to the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, one has been lost, and one has completely deteriorated. Since the early excavations, the development of mosaic conservation associations and more effective theories and techniques have allowed for greater protection of ancient mosaics. In order to protect both the physical and contextual integrity of Pompeii’s opus vermiculatum mosaics, a balance must be found between the preservation of the site’s distinct archaeological heritage and necessary intervention procedures. Through the study of history, ideology, and technology, this thesis suggests where this balance may be found. Since the analysis is contingent upon the documentation of these events, this study also features a catalog of the mosaics which, in documenting the available information regarding their treatment history, allows for further study and should ensure that the mistakes of past treatments will not be repeated.
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