The House of the Faun of Pompeii

Uses and the Role in Society

The House of the Faun of Pompeii, named after a small bronze statue of a dancing faun found in the impluvium, served several functions in Roman society. Primarily, it was a residential dwelling, home to one of Pompeii’s most prosperous and influential families. The house’s sheer size, encompassing an entire city block, spoke volumes about the family’s wealth and status.

Secondly, the House of the Faun functioned as a space for social gatherings and business dealings, as was typical of Roman domus (homes). Areas like the atrium and peristyle were designed for hosting guests, demonstrating the family’s hospitality and social standing. The house’s abundant artistic and architectural details reflected not only the family’s wealth but also their cultural sophistication, reinforcing their high social status among visitors.

Lastly, the presence of various commercial shops (tabernae) facing the streets surrounding the House of the Faun indicates it also served a commercial role. These shops, likely rented out by the homeowners, offered goods and services to the Pompeii populace, further augmenting the family’s income and influence within the city.

Construction

The House of the Faun was constructed in the 2nd century BC by an unknown but evidently wealthy Roman. Renowned for its immense scale and intricate details, the house exhibits the exemplary craftsmanship of ancient Roman architecture. The construction primarily employed locally sourced materials such as tuff, a volcanic rock abundant in the Campania region.

This was used for the structural elements, while luxurious imported materials like marble were incorporated for the decorative aspects, reflecting the opulence of the inhabitants. The house underwent a significant reconstruction phase after the earthquake in 62 AD, a few years before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius. This second phase marked the addition of several new features, showcasing a shift towards the classic Pompeian style of architecture.

Noteworthy Details

Several aspects of the House of the Faun offer visitors a unique glimpse into ancient Pompeian life:

• The Alexander Mosaic: Undoubtedly the most well-known feature of the House, this exquisite floor mosaic depicts a legendary battle scene between Alexander the Great and Darius III of Persia, demonstrating the high degree of skill possessed by ancient Roman artists.
• The Faun Statue: The house’s namesake, this small bronze statue is a quintessential example of Roman artistry. Its graceful form and intricate details have made it a symbol of Pompeian culture.
• The Tablinum: The principal reception room of the house, the Tablinum, is adorned with beautiful frescoes and offers a stunning view of the peristyle garden, creating a visually captivating space for receiving guests.
• The Peristyle: A large open courtyard decorated with statues and surrounded by a columned portico, the peristyle served as a serene place for relaxation and social gatherings.
• The Impluvium: A basin in the atrium for collecting rainwater, the impluvium highlights the Romans’ practical approach to architectural design, coupling aesthetic appeal with functionality.

Each of these features contributes to the House of the Faun’s status as an exceptional archaeological treasure within the Pompeii Archaeological Park.

Where to find The House of the Faun of Pompeii in the Archaeological Park

The House of the Faun of Pompeii resides within the Pompeii Archaeological Park and is easily accessible for visitors. It’s situated in the most affluent sector of the ancient city, in Region VI – this district was renowned for housing the elite of Pompeii.

Specifically, the House of the Faun can be found at the junction of Vico di Mercurio and Via della Fortuna, a central location that attests to the high social standing of its former inhabitants. Signage within the park will guide you to this remarkable site, immersing you in the rich history and culture of ancient Pompeii.

Some Historical Facts about The House of the Faun of Pompeii

The House of the Faun of Pompeii holds a wealth of historical intrigue and mythology:

• A Status Symbol: The House of the Faun, with its vast size and luxurious embellishments, was considered a status symbol in Pompeii, exemplifying the wealth and influence of its inhabitants.
• The Alexander Mosaic Origin: The origin of the Alexander Mosaic has fascinated historians. It’s believed to be a copy of a Greek painting that was lost in antiquity. The meticulous detail and grand scale of the mosaic suggest it was created by skilled artists from the eastern Mediterranean, who were likely brought to Pompeii especially for this project.
• Myth of the Faun: The house’s namesake, the faun, is a mythological half-human, half-goat creature from Roman mythology known for its free spirit and association with rustic landscapes. Fauns were believed to be benign spirits of the countryside, embodying a close relationship with nature. The bronze statue of the dancing faun is thought to be a talisman to ward off evil and invite prosperity.
• Surviving the Eruption: Despite the devastating eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, the House of the Faun remained remarkably well-preserved, allowing modern archaeologists to glean a wealth of information about the Roman lifestyle from this single site.
• Archaeological Discovery: The House of the Faun was discovered during the early stages of the Pompeii excavations in the 1830s. Its well-preserved nature and the wealth of artifacts found within, including fine tableware and sculptures, astounded archaeologists, contributing significantly to our understanding of Roman domestic life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the House of the Faun of Pompeii stands as an extraordinary testament to the grandeur and sophistication of ancient Roman life. It offers a plethora of historical insights, from the stunning Alexander Mosaic to the iconic statue of the Faun. Representing an architectural marvel within the Pompeii Archaeological Park, it allows us to delve into the intricate world of Pompeian art, architecture, and social hierarchy.

The House’s well-preserved state, even after the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius, enables a detailed understanding of Roman domestic life, making it an invaluable resource for historians and archaeologists alike. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, exploring the House of the Faun is akin to stepping back in time, immersing oneself in the captivating culture and lifestyle of ancient Pompeii.