A mid 19th century roman micromosaic looking across the Tiber towards Castel Sant'Angelo and St. Peter's beyond, inset into a black marble panel with a cast iron back, enclosed within a pierced ormulu scrolling acanthus leaf frame with four "Fasces Lictoriae", a bound bundle of wooden rods, sometimes including an axe with its blade emerging. The fasces had its origin in the Etruscan civilization, and was passed on to ancient Rome, where it symbolized a magistrate's power and jurisdiction. In the center top the eagle or Aquila with lightning symbol of Jupiter and of the Roman Legions, surrounded by a laurel wreath, symbol of victory. Underneath in a cartouche is engraved the famous acronym 'SPQR' ( Senatus PopolusQue Romanus or Senatus Populusque Quiritium Romanorum that means The Senate and the Citizens of Rome) for the City of Rome. On the back a polished wood panel.

Dimension of the micromosaic 6.75" x 9.25", overall with ormolu frame 13" x 14.5".

Excellent condition, commensurate with age.