The ancient city of Rome, often perceived as a monochrome place, was in fact a vibrant city filled with color. Contrary to the popular belief of gleaming white marble temples and palaces, quite often statues and monuments were a riot of color. The colored marbles used in the city were not just varying shades of white, like eggshell and ivory, but also included a palette of blues and greens.
These colored stones were highly polished and used extensively in the public buildings of the Roman Empire. The marble from the quarries of Carrara in northern Italy was particularly popular. This stone, coveted by artists and architects, was used to adorn the Roman Forum and various temples throughout the Eternal City.
The influence of marble in ancient Rome was not just confined to public buildings. Private residences were also adorned with bright frescoes made from colored marbles. The ancient city was a hub in the Mediterranean world for the production and distribution of these luxurious materials.
A section of a Roman marble floor of varying colors
The reign of Emperor Domitian (81-96 AD) saw a significant rise in the use of marble in Roman architecture. The use of colored marbles was not just for aesthetic purposes, but also as a symbol of wealth and power. The use of marble in ancient Rome was a reflection of the city's wealth and status in the ancient world.
Notable examples of architecture which featured marble as a construction material include the Roman Pantheon, the Colosseum, and the various temples and public buildings scattered throughout the Empire. These structures were often built using marble from a single quarry, showcasing the Romans' ability to transport massive amounts of this heavy stone over great distances.
Marble was also extensively used in Roman art and decor, leaving a lasting impact on the aesthetic sensibilities of the time. Roman artists widely used marble for sculptures, busts, reliefs, and other decorative objects, creating timeless pieces of art that still inspire and captivate today.
Ancient Roman Marbles: Types and Sources
Understanding the various types of Roman marbles is crucial to appreciating the extent of Rome's architectural and artistic legacy. Roman marbles were sourced from various regions, each with unique characteristics and qualities. The Romans had a keen understanding of these properties and chose the type of marble that suited their needs best for each project.
Carrara: The Most Renowned Roman Marble
Among the various types of marble used in Roman times, Carrara marble - known as Luna marble to the Romans - was the most renowned. This type of marble, sourced from a single quarry in the city of Carrara in Italy, was highly prized for its pristine whiteness and fine grain. The Carrara marble's superior quality made it a popular choice for both public buildings and private residences.
Despite the quarry's location in a remote part of Italy, the Romans were able to transport massive amounts of Carrara marble across the empire. This logistical feat underscores the significance of marble in the Roman economy and the empire's technical prowess.
The Carrera marble quarry in Tuscany, Italy
While Carrara was a primary source, it was not the only source of marble for the Romans. They also used marble from other parts of Italy and the wider Mediterranean area, including Greece, Turkey (ancient Asia Minor), and North Africa, each with its distinct color and quality. The use of different types of marble from various locations was part of the Romans' architectural and artistic expression, allowing for a diverse range of colors and textures in their buildings and sculptures.
Republican Marbles and Their Value
During the Republican era, the use of marble in Rome gained momentum. The Romans primarily used locally sourced marble during this period. This Roman marble, while not as opulent as their later counterparts, played a crucial role in laying the foundation for the Roman Empire's grand architectural styles. They were valued for their durability and ease of carving.
Imperial Marbles: Showcasing Power and Grandeur
The Imperial period marked a shift in the type of marble used by the Romans. The introduction of more luxurious and exotic marbles demonstrated the wealth and power of the Roman Empire. The use of these opulent Roman marbles was a clear statement of grandeur and dominance. Imperial marbles were often used in grand public buildings and private residences of the elite. They were a symbol of the empire's expansion and prosperity, reflecting the might and grandeur of the Roman civilization.
A City of Bricks to a City of Marble
During the Roman Republican period, marble was not used as extensively as it was in the subsequent Imperial period for several reasons. Initially, the use of marble was limited due to both cultural preferences and practical considerations.
Culturally, the early Romans had a preference for more austere and functional building materials, like wood and local stone, which reflected the prevailing social and political values of the Republic that emphasized modesty and civic virtue. The Republican era valued simplicity and frugality, and the use of marble might have been seen as overly ostentatious and associated with the Hellenistic cultures of the East, which the Romans initially regarded with some suspicion.
From a practical standpoint, the technology and logistics for quarrying, transporting, and working with marble had not yet been developed to the extent they would be in the Imperial period. The Republic lacked the extensive infrastructure and resources that would later allow the Romans to transport large quantities of marble long distances from the quarries to the construction sites.
It was not until the reign of Augustus (27 BC - 14 AD), the first Roman emperor, that marble began to be used extensively. Augustus famously boasted that he had found Rome a city of bricks and left it a city of marble, which reflects the monumental shift in architectural practices between the Republican and Imperial periods.
The 'Via Labicana Augustus' marble sculpture of the Roman emperor Augustus as Pontifex Maximus.
The Imperial period saw an increase in wealth, power, and territorial expansion, which brought new resources and technologies. The Romans developed advanced quarrying techniques, such as the use of the chisel and the saw, and they established a network of roads and shipping routes that facilitated the movement of marble across the Empire.
Additionally, the political and cultural climate of the Imperial period favored grandeur and displays of power, and marble became a symbol of the wealth and might of the Roman Empire. Emperors and wealthy citizens alike commissioned marble buildings and sculptures to demonstrate their status, and to leave lasting legacies.
Thus, while marble was known and used to some extent during the Republican period, it was the Imperial period that truly embraced marble as a central material for Roman architectural and artistic expression, reflecting both the changing tastes and the increased capabilities of the Roman state.
Greek Influence on Roman Marble Sculpture
The use of marble in Roman sculpture was greatly influenced by Greek art. Notably, Roman artists often used white marble, a favorite among the Greeks, to create their sculptures. They admired the Greek's mastery in portraying human proportions, which was reflected in their own art.
However, Roman sculptures, especially those made of marble, were generally larger than their Greek counterparts. This is evident in Roman copies of Greek sculptures, which were often oversized. Unlike the Greeks, who pursued ideal beauty in their sculptures, Roman artists chose a more realistic approach exemplified by Roman verism. Their sculptures often depicted emperors and empresses in their true likeness, making a departure from the Greek standard of idealized beauty.
In order to balance their larger-than-life sculptures, Roman artists had to attach a small block of marble to their creations. This technique was unique to Roman sculpture and is a distinguishing feature of their work. Despite the differences, the influence of Greek sculpture on Roman marble art is undeniable, demonstrating the interconnectedness of these two ancient civilizations.
While art history often juxtaposes Greek and Roman sculpture, they share a complex and intertwined relationship. It is undeniable that Greek sculpture heavily influenced Roman artists. As ancient Rome flourished during the 1st century AD, the Romans began to incorporate more of their own styles and tastes into their art.
Why Did Roman Artists Use White Marble?
White marble was a favored material among Roman artists, highly prized for its purity, beauty, and durability. Some scholars attribute this preference to the influence of ancient Greece, where white marble was widely used in relief sculpture. The use of white marble extended beyond the Iberian Peninsula, reaching as far as Asia Minor.
The demand for white marble in the Roman Empire was so high that it spurred a complex trade system. White marble was transported in large quantities from quarries to intended destinations, often to fulfill specific orders.
The Techniques of Marble Cutting in Ancient Rome
Marble cutting techniques in ancient Rome were a testament to the ingenuity and technical prowess of Roman artists. The use of this beautiful, yet challenging, material demanded the development of advanced cutting techniques.
The ancient Romans developed a variety of techniques to cut marble, including the use of water-powered saws and other innovative tools. These techniques not only allowed Roman artists to create intricate designs, but also to produce larger architectural elements such as columns and blocks.
How did Romans Cut Marble?
The ancient Romans used several techniques to cut marble. One method was known as the "panel" practice, which involved cutting a 15-20 cm deep hole in the chosen stone and then inserting metal chisels [source: CMP Stone]. They also used wooden wedges that were inserted into shallow cuts and then soaked with water, causing the wedges to expand and split the marble [source: Gizmodo]. Additionally, they exploited natural fissures in the rockface by inserting moistened wedges of wood, which would expand and help to quarry the marble [source: Carrara Marble].
One common misconception is that Roman pillars were solid marble. In truth, many were hollow, crafted from brick and then clad in marble. Greek statues and reliefs also often used this technique of "marble cladding".
To create these cladded structures, Roman artisans would first shape the marble into thin slabs using hand tools. These slabs were then attached to the structure using a sort of ancient mortar. Smoothing the marble to a high sheen was a laborious process, achieved by hours of polishing with abrasives. Despite the challenges, the Romans' skill in cutting and shaping marble was unparalleled, contributing significantly to their architectural and artistic legacy.
The Legacy of Roman Marbles in Modern Times
Roman marbles have held an enduring allure, surviving the passage of centuries and still commanding admiration in contemporary times. These ancient artifacts, known for their intricate designs and exceptional craftsmanship, are often the prime focus of collectors and historians. Their continued existence offers a fascinating glimpse into the artistic and architectural prowess of ancient Rome.
Understanding Roman marbles is integral to appreciating their historical significance. The marbles are not just artifacts; they are historical records, bearing witness to the grandeur of the Roman Empire. They are prized possessions that offer insights into Roman aesthetics, societal norms, and intricate craftsmanship. Today, these Roman marbles adorn museums, attract collectors, and serve as inspiration for artists and designers worldwide.
The Survival of Roman Marbles in Archeological Sites
Archeological sites across the world have played a significant role in the survival of Roman marbles. The remarkable preservation of these artifacts reflects the durability of marble and the advanced techniques employed by Roman artisans.
The legacy of Roman marbles endures not only in the ruins of its grand architecture but also in the fragments and sculptures that have been preserved across various archaeological sites. Despite centuries of exposure to the elements and human activities, numerous examples of Roman marble work have survived, offering a glimpse into the opulence and artistry of the ancient empire.
Splendid examples of ancient Roman marble are preserved in museums, particularly in Rome, such as those at the Vatican where the opulent history of Roman marble can be admired. Additionally, well-preserved buildings such as the Maison Carrée and the Temple of Augustus showcase the durability and lasting beauty of Roman marble architecture [source: TheCollector].
The Maison Carrée in Nîmes, France.
Furthermore, archaeological finds continue to reveal the extent of Roman marble use. For instance, a white marble slab with engravings was discovered in the ancient Roman port city of Ostia Antica, detailing the journeys of Emperor Hadrian, demonstrating not only the practical uses of marble for record-keeping but also its enduring nature [source: Newsweek].
These Roman marbles serve as tangible links to the past, revealing the artistic tastes, religious beliefs, and social structures of the Roman Empire. They provide a rich tapestry of historical data for researchers and historians, contributing to our understanding of ancient Roman civilization.
The usage of marble did not end with the fall of the Roman Empire, however. Instead, it has had a significant influence on contemporary design and architecture. The grandeur and elegance associated with Roman marble has made it a preferred choice for architects and designers right up to the present day, who seek to evoke a sense of history and luxury.
The Unending Echoes of Marble in Ancient Rome
As we delve into the rich tapestry of the Roman world, we realize that the marble sculptures and edifices were not just significant architectural elements, but they were also vibrant expressions of Roman artistry and culture. Contrary to what some may believe, Rome was not a monochrome city of beige and white marble monuments. In fact, marbles and other stones used in construction and artistry were available in a variety of colors, from the pristine white Carrara marble to the vibrant green or yellow marbles.
Marble, particularly the precious Carrara marble, was integral to Roman architecture and art. From the grand Temple of Apollo to the Mausoleum of Augustus, marble blocks were used extensively in some of the most iconic edifices of Imperial Rome. The Roman literature of the time is filled with references to marble, reflecting its importance in the society of the time. The reuse and recycling of marble from ancient monuments was also a common practice, further underlining the value attached to this material.
Interestingly, the influence of marble in ancient Rome extends beyond the confines of the Italian Peninsula. The ripple effects can be seen in the classical art and architecture of other cultures. The Greek and Roman cultures shared many similarities, and the use of marble is one of them.
Today, the legacy of Roman marble continues to resonate in modern times. From the marble countertops in the homes of celebrities like Kim Kardashian in Los Angeles, to the preservation of ancient monuments in Rome, the echoes of marble in ancient Rome continue to reverberate through the centuries.
Did you know...
The famous marble from Carrara was known to the Romans as "marmor lunense," or "marble of Luni," due to the port of Luni from where it was shipped. This marble was highly prized and used in numerous public buildings and sculptures throughout Rome.
Did you know...
A sad fate befell many of ancient Rome's marble wonders, as they were often smashed to pieces and burned in furnaces to create lime. This destruction of marble artifacts was a common practice in later periods when the value of the sculptures as works of art was superseded by the utilitarian value of their material components.
Did you know...
The control of marble quarries was often a direct result of Roman military conquests. For instance, the Romans established control over the Carrara marble quarries through the defeat of the Apuani, one of the most formidable and powerful of the Ligurian tribes who lived in ancient north-western Italy, which allowed them access to this high-quality marble.
