IL PROGRAMMA DECORATIVO DEL COSIDDETTO AUDITORIUM DI MECENATE A ROMA. UNA NUOVA PROPOSTA DI DATAZIONE1

Abstract

The so-called Auditorium of Maecenas was preserved in both its structure and its beautiful paintings, which
include black friezes with dionysiac motifs, gardens and architectural motifs on a red background. Although
the function of the monument is yet to be ascertained, the plan and the decorative motifs strongly point to
its use as a nymphaeum. Similarities with the painted gardens of the Villa of Livia, Villa Farnesina and, most
of all, with the architectural schemes of the red room (16) of the Villa of Agrippa Postumus in Boscotrecase,
suggest this decorative scheme should be dated within the first quarter of the first century AD. The date
suggested would, furthermore, correspond more closely with both the opus sectile floor and the historical
evidence of Tiberius’ stay in the horti mecenatiani before his election as emperor.