Anatolian Influence on the Architecture in Roman Thrace – Aphrodisian Handworks on Corinthian Capitals from Perinthus

Authors : Zdravko Dimitrov

Pages : 33-46

Doi:10.26650/gaad.2023004

View : 14 | Download : 3

Publication Date : 2023-04-28

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :The study focuses on a group of pilaster Corinthian capitals from Perinthus (now Marmara Ereğlisi). Information about them was published over a century ago (Mendel 1914, vol. III). The architectural analysis of these monuments, which were made of marble most likely acquired in the nearby quarries of Proconnesus Island (now Marmara Island), shows a unique similarity to the architectural details made by the stonemasons from the Asia Minor town of Aphrodisias. Separate groups of Aphrodisian masters traveled to a number of complexes and buildings throughout the Roman Empire. Their works are also found in the province of Thrace. The decorations of some monuments from Villa Armira, Oescus, Tomis, Odessos, Marcianopolis, and Anchialos are probably Aphrodisian. This is why the group of pilaster capitals in Perinthus are extremely important for understanding the path of Anatolian masters to Thrace. Not only the stonemason work but also the patterns of these pilaster details are very common to Aphrodisian handworks. The pilaster Corinthian capitals in Perinthus are a direct link between the original models from Asia Minor and the monuments produced in Roman Thrace. They were made in the Marmara Sea region, which is the closest place to the main center for marble mining during the Roman Imperial Era: Proconnesus.
Keywords : Roman architecture, capitals, stonemasons, decoration, marble productions coinage

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