Artefact Porn

Remains of the original Opus Sectile decoration in the Lateran Baptistery (1170×2080)

October 11, 2025

Most of the the original decoration of the Lateran baptistery, built in the 440s, was destroyed during its “restoration” during the 1600s. This section of Opus Sectile in the original entrance is the only wall decoration that survives.

by anchaescastilla

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Remains of the original Opus Sectile decoration in the Lateran Baptistery (1170×2080)

The Arch of Ctesiphon in modern-day Iraq is the only remaining structure of ancient Ctesiphon, built in 242–272 AD during the Sassanid Empire. Considered a landmark in architecture history, the Persian masterpiece was on the brink of collapse in 2021 when Iran intervened to restore it. [1246×998]

The Wallace Amethyst. In the 20th century, Wallace Chan developed the Wallace Cut technique, an inner layered intaglio. China [1914×1275]

Roman tablet/gravestone from the 2nd Century CE detailing the death of a Roman sailor who served in the Imperial Navy, found in a Backyard in New Orleans. [1250×1502]

Remains of the original Opus Sectile decoration in the Lateran Baptistery (1170×2080)

Related

The Wallace Amethyst. In the 20th century, Wallace Chan developed the Wallace Cut technique, an inner layered intaglio. China [1914×1275]

Roman tablet/gravestone from the 2nd Century CE detailing the death of a Roman sailor who served in the Imperial Navy, found in a Backyard in New Orleans. [1250×1502]