House of Charred Furniture, Roman domus in Herculaneum, Italy
The House of Charred Furniture is a Roman residence in Herculaneum with an atrium featuring an upper gallery supported by columns that connects to several decorated rooms and a garden space. The building displays typical features of wealthy Roman living with a carefully arranged layout of private and semi-public areas.
The structure originates from the Samnite period and underwent major renovations during Emperor Claudius's reign, incorporating architectural elements of the third and fourth styles. This modernization reflects growing wealth and changing architectural preferences during the early Imperial era.
The tablinum displays a white mosaic floor with black borders and red and yellow panels showing figures that reflect Roman artistic tastes. This decoration reveals the preferences and values of wealthy Romans living in this household.
Access through Cardo IV leads to the entrance hall and directly to the atrium, with passages connecting various rooms throughout the structure. It helps to take your time exploring, as the winding paths between areas can be disorienting.
Excavations revealed preserved charred remains of a wooden dining couch, demonstrating how Romans reclined while eating. This find offers rare insight into everyday furnishings and habits of wealthy Roman households.
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