Export Ban Imposed on Roman Mosaics to Prevent Departure from UK

An interim export prohibition has been imposed on two Roman mosaics, which are deemed to be in danger of being removed from the United Kingdom. This governmental action was taken based on recommendations from Arts Council England (ACE) and aims to provide an opportunity for a British museum, gallery, or other institution to purchase them. These geometric mosaics were unearthed at a Roman villa situated in Fullerton, Hampshire, in 1904. Their combined valuation stands at £560,000. According to Arts Minister Sir Chris Bryant, the mosaics offer “a rare insight into the local history of Hampshire during Roman Britain”. The villa itself was initially found during archaeological digs conducted as part of an ongoing investigation of the upper Test Valley. The mosaics were unearthed in 1904 and subsequently relocated to Fullerton Manor. In 2022, archaeologist Barry Cunliffe verified that they originated from the walkway extending along the villa’s southern perimeter. One portion was re-installed at Fullerton Manor, while the other is currently housed in Andover Museum. They have been characterized as possessing “unique defining characteristics”. The first mosaic, priced at a suggested £380,000, displays what is thought to be a “running pelta” design, featuring small, crescent-shaped shields arranged geometrically. The second mosaic, with a recommended price of £180,000, exhibits geometric patterns formed from tiles sharing the same color scheme and background. Sir Chris expressed his hope that a British purchaser could be secured “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”. Tim Pestell, a member of the reviewing committee, stated that the preservation of these two mosaic sections was “remarkable”. He further commented, “Although many have been revealed through excavations in Britain, the number that survive intact is tiny.” Pestell added, “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.” The export prohibition is scheduled to remain in effect until February 19. For updates, follow BBC Hampshire & Isle of Wight on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), or Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. Please note that the BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.