Learning the HISTORY OF INTERIOR DESIGN : POMPEII

In order to understand how so much is known about ancient Roman life, we look to the city of Pompeii. Although the story of Pompeii is that of tragedy, the ultimate contribution to history is a treasure trove of information about life during that time.

Map of Pompeii

Pompeii was most likely founded between 600-500 BCE. It was captured by Romans in 80 BCE and was essentially a resort town that contained the country homes of wealthy Romans. Estimates put the population of Pompeii at around 20,000 people.

Plan of typical home in Pompeii

The nearby Mt Vesuvius wasn't considered a real threat by this community although they had experienced earthquakes from time to time. In fact, a few years before the major eruption that covered Pompeii, an earthquake had shaken the city and caused quite a bit of damage. This damage was in the process of being repaired when the eruption occurred.

Pompeii was destroyed in 79 CE from a sudden eruption of Mt Vesuvius. What is known of the eruption was written in an account by Pliny the Younger, who was watching the event from across the bay of Naples. First ash rained down on the city and, contrary to popular belief, many people did have time to flee. For those who stayed behind things got much worse. Intense heat and toxic gasses enveloped the city and brought life there to an end - about 2000 people died. Ash and rock covered the city and preserved it for centuries.

The remnants of Pompeii remained mostly untouched until 1748. Once discovered, study began on the city and it's history. One unique aspect of the discovery of Pompeii was that voids were found in the solidified ash. When plaster was injected into these voids, it showed that bodies of humans and animals had been encased by the ash. From the plaster molds, one could actually see the residents of Pompeii frozen in time. Also found there are frescoes, furniture, lamps, dishes, jewelry, baths, homes, temples, etc. which were well preserved because of the lack of air and moisture. They even found graffiti on the walls, food on tables, and bread baking in the ovens.

Plaster casts of bodies

Fresco of a couple who owned a home in Pompeii

Beautiful mosaic flooring

Ruins in Pompeii

Pottery and other artifacts

However, once these artifacts were exposed they began rapidly deteriorating. Preservation and more excavation is taking place to this day. A third of the city still lies uncovered - mainly areas that weren't associated with the homes of the wealthy.

Influence on Modern Design

When Pompeii was initially discovered, it made a big impact of European culture. There was an enthusiasm for style of Pompeii and the art found there. It influenced the developing neoclassical style and was incorporated into many homes of that time period. It's influence even extends to modern interiors today.