River God

$1,500.00

Details

  • Polychrome Stone Tesserae 

  • 2024

  • Handcrafted by Farez Jawad

  • 17 x 13.5 in (43 x 34 cm)

Description

The polychromatic tesserae is modeled after the mosaic of the Greek River God Achelous at the Zeugma Mosaic Museum in the southeastern Turkish city of Zeugma, or more generally after Poseidon. 

This mosaic is crafted with approximately 25 to 36 micro tesserae per square inch. The tesserae illustrate the god’s multicolored beard and his intense gaze. He is surrounded by lilies and other aquatic plants to symbolize his connection to the river and sea. 

Achelous was the chief of all river gods and could shapeshift at will, famously transforming into a bull and snake while attempting to prevent his daughter’s hand in marriage to Hercules.

Details

  • Polychrome Stone Tesserae 

  • 2024

  • Handcrafted by Farez Jawad

  • 17 x 13.5 in (43 x 34 cm)

Description

The polychromatic tesserae is modeled after the mosaic of the Greek River God Achelous at the Zeugma Mosaic Museum in the southeastern Turkish city of Zeugma, or more generally after Poseidon. 

This mosaic is crafted with approximately 25 to 36 micro tesserae per square inch. The tesserae illustrate the god’s multicolored beard and his intense gaze. He is surrounded by lilies and other aquatic plants to symbolize his connection to the river and sea. 

Achelous was the chief of all river gods and could shapeshift at will, famously transforming into a bull and snake while attempting to prevent his daughter’s hand in marriage to Hercules.

Creation

Mosaic‑making has a lineage spanning thousands of years. Early civilizations created stone tapestries to adorn homes, honor culture, and impress guests. Antico Contempo brings this tradition into the modern day, utilizing ancient techniques in both restored and contemporary designs.

Each mosaic begins with research into historic patterns, materials, and techniques to capture their cultural and visual language. We reimagine these compositions for a modern setting while honoring their original spirit. In collaboration with mosaic artists, historians, and designers, we create works that unite antique and contemporary sensibilities, rich with color and emotion.

The process starts with natural stone like marble, granite, limestone, onyx, and travertine—never colored or dyed. Hand‑cut into tesserae, every piece is arranged with patience, artistry, and mastery of ancient craft. After weeks, months, or even years of meticulous craftsmanship, each mosaic is completed with a refined frame, ready for effortless display.