Inschriften in Wohnhäusern 1

The publication deals with the importance and function of inscriptions in residential homes in the upper layer from around 400 BC to AD 600. It investigates commonalities, differences and the development of the use of text in residential homes. The inscriptions are found on architectural components such as façades, door frames and pillars, as well as featuring in mosaics and wall paintings and on sculptures. In wall paintings we find both dipinti and spontaneous graffiti, including drawings. Most of the inscriptions can be assigned to adults, especially men. Female authors are present, but to a much smaller extent. The texts mention members of the household from all levels, referencing freedmen and slaves as well as visitors and guests. The inscriptions include, among other things, greetings and wishes on the part of those living in the house (especially those in mosaics) as well as apotropaic inscriptions to protect the house and its inhabitants, dedications (on altars and statues of deities) and praise of the head of the household (on sculptures portraying them). In many cases the graffiti were expressions of emotions. Explanatory texts were often added to figurative depictions on mosaic floors and frescoes; sometimes the sculptors or mosaicists have added their signatures. The inscriptions are located on the façades of houses and in the well-furnished and decorated living rooms, but some are also found in the latrines. The height at which they were located and the size of the inscription were generally chosen such that they could be easily seen and read.