Two Roman mosaics, valued at a combined total of £560,000, have been placed under a temporary export bar in an effort to give UK museums, galleries, or institutions the opportunity to

acquire these historical treasures.

The mosaics, dating back to the 4th century AD, were originally discovered in 1904 at a Roman villa in Fullerton, Hampshire. They were subsequently moved to Fullerton Manor. Each mosaic showcases unique designs that reflect the artistry and cultural significance of Roman Britain.

The first mosaic features a "running pelta" design, consisting of crescent-shaped small shields arranged in a flowing geometric pattern. The design, created using purplish-brown and red tesserae on a white background, is characteristic of Roman decorative art and found throughout the Roman Empire.

The second mosaic presents a more geometric aesthetic, composed of two distinct elements. One resembles a simplified city wall, while the other features a stonework pattern of alternating rectangles. Both mosaics employ purplish-brown tiles set against a white backdrop, demonstrating the refined craftsmanship of their time.

The mosaics originated from a narrow corridor and a square room within the villa, linking the eastern and western sides of the structure. The square room, where much of the labyrinth pattern remains intact, provides crucial context for understanding the mosaics' original layout and purpose.

Roman villas, once thought to be solely the residences of the landed elite, are now believed to have served multiple functions, including hunting estates, agricultural hubs, religious centers, and places for healing. These mosaics provide valuable insights into the changing uses of Roman countryside estates over time.

Arts Minister Sir Chris Bryant emphasized the mosaics' role in deepening our understanding of Roman Britain, stating:

“These mosaics dating back to the fourth century provide a rare insight into the local history of Hampshire during Roman Britain, shaping our understanding of life in the countryside during this period. 

I hope placing an export bar on these unique Roman mosaics means a UK buyer can be found so that the public can continue to have opportunities to learn about our country’s rich history and to enjoy these mosaics for generations to come”.

The export bar follows the recommendation of the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest. The committee determined the mosaics met two Waverley criteria: their strong connection to British history and their exceptional significance to the study of Roman Britain, particularly the evolution of countryside villas.

Committee member Tim Pestell highlighted the rarity of intact Roman mosaics in Britain, stating:

“Few things are as readily associated with the Romans as mosaics, those patterned floors that decorated their villas. Made of thousands of tiny blocks of stone called tesserae laid together to create patterns or figural scenes, they conjure up a sophisticated lifestyle in graceful houses, where the rich displayed their wealth and power. Although many have been revealed through excavations in Britain, the number that survive intact is tiny. 

The survival of two stretches of mosaic that were excavated from a Roman villa in Hampshire is therefore remarkable.

Further analysis has much to tell us about the commissioner and makers of not only these mosaics, but others from the Empire. The ways in which they were used, the trade networks exploited for their materials and above all, their breathtaking beauty can only be fully realised if these intricate pieces can be saved for the public by a museum. With an export bar placed on these mosaics, I sincerely hope this opportunity can be taken”.

The export licence application for the mosaics has been deferred until February 19, 2025. This deferral allows time for potential buyers to secure funding. A 15-business-day consideration period will follow to evaluate any offers.

The geometric pelta mosaic is priced at £380,000 (plus £76,000 VAT, reclaimable by eligible institutions).

The geometric monochrome mosaic is valued at £180,000 (plus £36,000 VAT, also reclaimable).

Should an offer be made, a second three-month deferral period will commence following the signing of an Option Agreement.

These mosaics offer a window into the lives of our Roman ancestors and the dynamic history of the British countryside. By securing these artifacts for public ownership, future generations can continue to explore and appreciate the legacy of Roman Britain.