Radio Times

Review by:

Gill Crawford

As the golden days of the Roman Empire began to wane in the third century, you might expect the standard of Roman art to do the same, but in the last episode of his fascinating series Alistair Sooke sets out to show that creativity thrived in these tumultuous times. Although he has to go slightly further afield than Rome itself to prove his thesis.

Some of the finest mosaics, silver and glassware ever created in the ancient world actually came from the furthest edges of the empire, whether from the cities of Libya, the oases of Egypt or even closer to home here in Britain. You can’t fail to be awed by the craftsmanship of the Mildenhall Great Dish in the British Museum.

About this programme

3/3. Alastair Sooke examines the fall of the Empire through the art produced during the years of its decline. He visits Libya, where he examines mosaics that have previously never been caught on film as he tours Leptis Magna, one of the best preserved Roman cities in the world. He also travels to Egypt and the northern frontiers of the Republic, encountering paintings of mummies, as well as impressive silver and glassware. Last in the series.

Cast and crew

Cast

Presenter

Alastair Sooke

Crew

Producer

Tim Dunn

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