Many Roman gardens included an internal peristyle, an open space surrounded by a colonnade. Designed as places of peace and tranquility, refuge from urban life, they were spaces filled with religious and symbolic meaning. Ornamental horticulture because highly developed in Roman times, influenced by foreign civilizations. Plants were both cultivated locally and imported. The garden frescos prominently feature specific species of plants - noteably iris, lilies and daisies. Flowers were cultivated for aesthetic purposes and their ethereal qualities used for both ceremony and for perfume.

87 w x 67 h (Framed 113 w x 92 h cm) Oil, mixed media and gesso on board in antique frame.