Vandalism exists for ages. Already in ancient times graffiti were painted or carved on walls. In the summer of 2009 the excavation team of the Urban Villa discovered a courtyard (Courtyard LXIX), surrounded by porticoes on at least two sides. The portico walls were decorated with polychromic frescos displaying geometric patterns and figurative elements. Unfortunately, the frescos were not found in situ, but broken in pieces in the collapse layers. On one of the pieces the team did a remarkable discovery. After cleaning, on the green background, the head of an adult man in profile appeared. His hair, his eye, nose and ear are clearly visible. Could this be the self-portrait of the vandal, a child's drawing out of his parents sigh? Or does it show the head of the master, carved by his slave ...?

Dr. Inge Uytterhoeven
Drs. Rob Rens

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