It is fitting that the most famous mosaic of the ancient world depicts the era’s ultimate military leader—Alexander the Great (356 B.C.–323 B.C.). Alexander’s empire extended from the eastern Mediterranean to parts of Asia and included Egypt, the Middle East, and Greece; he never lost a battle. The 19-foot by 10-foot “Alexander Mosaic,” now part of Museo Archeological Nazionale, Naples (MANN), was discovered in 1831 during excavations of the ancient Roman city of Pompeii.
This mosaic masterpiece impresses in size, artistry, and technique. Its intricate details, deployment of foreshortening, shading, and light, as well as dynamic subject create a complex composition. Recent restoration efforts have uncovered more of its history, but many facets of the “Alexander Mosaic” remain mysterious.
