Roman Mosaic Bow Tie

DESIGNER'S NOTES

A classic Fox & Chave silk bow tie with a design reminiscent of mosaics from the Roman Empire which spanned most of Europe and beyond as a unified territory between 27 BC – AD 395.

The Roman technique for laying mosaics, particularly for flooring, was a meticulous process that involved careful planning, skilled craftsmanship, and attention to detail. The base layer, known as the statumen, was made of large stones or rubble, onto which was laid a layer called rudus, made of rough mortar mixed with crushed stone or brick fragments. The next layer, known as the nucleus, was a finer mortar mixture made with lime and sand. This layer was levelled and smoothed carefully to create a uniform surface for the mosaic.

The desired design would then be sketched in preliminary form on the nucleus, before the small pieces, called tesserae, selected based on the colours and materials needed for the design, and made of marble, stone, glass, ceramic, or even semi-precious stones were laid.

Starting from the centre of the design or from a pre-determined focal point, the artisans would begin placing the tesserae, arranging them meticulously one by one to match the desired pattern or image. When complete, the design would be grouted, polished and then sealed with wax or oil.

After AD 395 the Roman Empire split into East and West with the latter lasting less than 100 years while the former continued for another 1000.

COLOURS

STYLING

Fox & Chave bow ties are supplied in a unique presentation box perfect for gifting. Wear your bow tie as you would a regular tie for an alternative look and not just for Back Tie events. A Fox & Chave bow tie can be worn to work, at casual events and even with jeans.