Couches and columns: studies in the selection of white marble at and around Pompeii

This study focuses on the use of white marble for triclinia and columns at Pompeii and its suburb or Murecine, specifically the triclinium and colonnade of the Praedia of Julia Felix, and grotto aedicula of the Casa di Octavius Quartio (ii 2, 2), and the three triclinia uncovered during the autostrada works at Murecine. Most of these ensembles used more than one white marble, and the central question is whether this was a design feature or a matter of necessity. The criterion of symmetry in the compositional elements is adduced as a first step to deciding between intentionality and constrained budget or supply.