Scenes from Paradise: Jewish Roman Mosaics from Tunisia

By K. Kris Hirst, About.com Guide

Image 05.34. Roman Mosaic of a Bird in a Vine. 3rd century-5th century A.D. Unknown Roman Artist, found in Tunis Tunisia. 27 7/8 x 21 5/8in. (70.8 x 55cm). 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