Timelessness of Coarse Jokes Revealed Through Ancient Roman Artworks
In the heart of the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, archaeologists have unearthed a treasure trove of hidden masterpieces - a collection of ancient graffiti that provide a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives and thoughts of Roman citizens during the Flavian dynastic period in 79 C.E.
These graffiti, carefully peeled back from layers of ash and dirt, reveal a vibrant and provocative world that mirrors, in many ways, the content found on a bathroom stall at a local bar today.
The Ancient Graffiti Project, a valuable resource for learning about Roman street art, offers detailed maps and insights into these provocative expressions. One such example is the quote, "Restituta, take off your skirt and show us your hairless private parts," which was found in both Pompeii and Herculaneum.
The project also uncovers more subtle messages, such as a graffiti written next to a picture of a man with a large nose, or a hint at the thoughts of an ancient food critic. "The finance officer of the emperor Nero says this food is poison," is just one of the many intriguing phrases discovered.
Roman mural examples at these ancient sites often focus on risqué scenes, nude mythological figures, and phallic shapes. One graffiti, found written on the exterior of a tavern, shows how little we as a species have matured over the millennia.
Remarkably, the vivid pigments in these ancient paintings have survived despite being buried for over 1,500 years under volcanic ash. This preservation offers a unique opportunity to study the art and culture of the Roman Empire in unprecedented detail.
From the provocative and humorous to the more serious, these graffiti provide a window into the past, offering a glimpse into the thoughts, emotions, and daily lives of the ancient Roman citizens. Through the Ancient Graffiti Project, we can continue to learn and appreciate this fascinating aspect of Roman history.
