The Penn Museum in Philadelphia displays The Lod Mosaic in an exhibition on view February 10 – May 12, 2013.
The Lod Mosaic Image © Israel Antiquities Authority
More than 300 square feet and nearly 2,000 years old, this ancient Roman floor mosaic is one of the world’s largest and best preserved. Discovered in 1996 in Lod, Israel (near Tel Aviv), the “Lod Mosaic” is often characterized as an archaeological gem. Learn about the mosaic’s discovery, history and conservation in this limited time exhibition. See this unique masterpiece in its final United States venue before it travels to the Louvre in Paris and eventually becomes the permanent focus of the Shelby White and Leon Levy Lod Mosaic Center in Israel.
Dating to 300 CE, the “Lod Mosaic” is one of the most complete, well-preserved, and largest Roman mosaics ever found. It was likely commissioned by a high-standing Roman official for his private home. Alluding to gladiatorial games, the mosaic panels depict scenes of hunting, trading, and marine life; but the lack of human figures on any of the panels makes the Lod Mosaic very unusual. This exhibition presents the unique history and fascinating excavation of this impressive ancient Roman mosaic.
The Lod Mosaic is on loan from the Israel Antiquities Authority and the Shelby White and Leon Levy Lod Mosaic Center.