The ancient Roman city of Pompeii was left blanketed in ash for many centuries after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. This exhibition offers a unique look at the objects and artworks that once resided in the lively city. The frescos, sculptures, and jewellery on display give a sense of the luxurious lifestyle led by many of Pompeii’s elite. The poor and rich alike enjoyed theatre performances and gladiator battles, demonstrating that, despite Pompeii’s population of only about 20,000 inhabitants, the vibrant city was extremely culturally active.
Living in the shadows of the luxury flaunted by the rich were the slaves, interwoven into the fabric of everyday Pompeian life yet residing firmly on its margins. Everyday objects and works of art representing and depicting the lives of slaves contrast with the conspicuous extravagance of the elite class to denote the enormous stratification present in Pompeian society.
“Pompeii” offers visitors a look back at the ancient city that has luckily been preserved for our benefit. The contemporary relevance and historical otherness of Pompeii can be glimpsed by the surviving objects which at once resonate with and stimulate further interest in our ideas about the distant past.