Mosaic Stoicus. 24 x 15 cm.

Description

Mosaic “Stoicus”. Reproduction of a Roman mosaic, completely handmade, using the same techniques as two thousand years ago.

Measurements:

• Width: 24 cm. Height: 15 cm.
• The technique used is “opus teselarium”, a mosaic of cubic stone tesserae.

Tesserae of up to 8 mm of natural stone and marble have been used in its manufacture. Fixed in mortar with a metal structure. Ready to be hung on the wall or as flooring on the floor.

Mosaic ‘Stoicus’, a reproduction of a Roman mosaic with the Latin word ‘Stoicvs’.

The word “stoic” comes from the Greek “Stoa,” a colonnade, referring to the Stoa Poikilé or Painted Colonnade in the Agora of Athens. It was where the philosopher Zeno of Citium (approx. 333-262 BCE) gathered with his followers to discuss the ideas and philosophical teachings that characterized Stoicism. The peak of this philosophical school occurred in the 1st and 2nd centuries CE within the Roman Empire, where it firmly took root due to the Roman character, notably practical, and its longing for the simplicity, austerity, and frugality of the Republic era in contrast to the luxury of the Empire. During this time, the main representatives of Stoicism were the orator, senator and consul Cicero; Epictetus, a Greek slave; a senator and advisor to emperors, Seneca; and an emperor, Marcus Aurelius. Their works served as a synthesis of Stoic thought, emphasizing the practical application of their teachings in daily life.

Stoicism is presented as a set of teachings highly useful for facing adversity and achieving inner serenity and joy, as well as great strength in challenging circumstances. They advocated self-knowledge and self-control, encouraging the development of what makes us human while appreciating the present moment. Freedom, they argued, depends on the extent to which we free ourselves from ignorance, fear, and passions.

“We are often more afraid than sorry; and we suffer more in imagination than in reality.” (Seneca)

“Join what is spiritually superior, regardless of what other people think or do. Keep your true aspirations no matter what is happening around you.” (Epictetus)

“Our life is what our thoughts create.” (Marcus Aurelius)

“It is necessary that the spirit be free from all disturbance of ambition and fear, as well as from sadness, immoderate joy and anger, in order to enjoy the serene tranquillity that brings with it the constancy and feeling of our dignity.” (Cicero)

Read more about the Stoic philosophers on our blog: Stoic Philosophers, a model of Strength and Joy