Roman window glass: An approach to its study through iconography

Abstract

Despite the fact that iconographic studies are recognized as an important tool for understanding antiquity, there are few references of Roman window glass among scholars in this field. This paper, which analyses images in reliefs, mosaics and wall paintings, shows how representations of window glass are more common than hitherto argued. The data from these analyses provides important information about the chronology, use and availability of this type of material, adding to the small body of knowledge regarding an object little understood in scholarly circles, even though windows are believed to be one of the most widespread applications of glass in the Roman era.