Scenes from Paradise: Jewish Roman Mosaics from Tunisia

By K. Kris Hirst, About.com Guide

Image 05.26. Mosaic of Menorah with Lulav and Ethrog. 3rd century-5th century A.D. Roman mosaice by an unknown Roman artist, found in Tunis, Tunisia. 22 5/8 x 34 15/16 in. (57.4 x 88.8cm). Museum Collection Fund, Brooklyn Museum.

This photo essay is from the 2006 exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum, which included a collection of Roman mosaics recovered from the 3rd century AD Jewish synagogue at Naro, Tunisia. The mosaics, showing natural, religious and personal images, exemplify a little-known way of life, that of wealthy Jewish citizens of the late Roman empire in Africa.

• Tree of Paradise at the Brooklyn Museum
• Carthage