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Sapphos

AKA

Woman with wax tablet and stylus

Provenance

Insula Occidentalis

Date

50 CE

Medium

Second Style, Roman Fresco

Current Location

National Archaeological Museum of Naples

Add to Cart

180 USD

Often referred to as "Sappho," this iconic fresco depicts a poised young woman holding a stylus to her lips and a wax tablet in hand. Painted with extraordinary sensitivity, she gazes outward with thoughtful intensity, suggesting a reflective or poetic inner life. Though her true identity remains unknown, the association with the Greek poetess Sappho captures the spirit of educated Roman women in elite households.

This fresco was discovered in Pompeii’s Insula Occidentalis, a residential complex on the western edge of the city overlooking the Bay of Naples. It is a classic example of the Fourth Style of Pompeian wall painting (50–79 CE), known for its complex and eclectic combination of elements from the previous three styles. It remains one of the most beloved images from the ancient world, embodying both elegance and intellectual depth.
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Fractional Ownership

Support the preservation of Pompeii while co-owning a piece of history. Through our shared Vault of Verusius model, you can purchase 1/100th ownership of this fresco starting at Ξ (Ethherum or ETH) 0.05 (approx. $180 USD). Your contribution grants you proportional royalties, exclusive access to private content, and helps fund ongoing archaeological conservation efforts.

​© 2025 by Vault of Vesusius by Sarah Walker-Leptich

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