What were pictures made from tiny pieces of glass called in ancient Rome?

Mosaics were intricate artworks created in ancient Rome using tiny pieces of colored glass, stones, or tiles. These pieces, known as tesserae, were arranged together to form elaborate patterns, designs, or images. Mosaics were commonly used to decorate floors, walls, and ceilings in both public and private spaces, showcasing detailed scenes from mythology, everyday life, and nature.

The use of colored glass in mosaics allowed for a vibrant array of colors and light reflections, enhancing the visual impact of the artwork. Roman artisans perfected the technique, which became a hallmark of Roman decorative art. Mosaics not only served as an artistic expression but also demonstrated the technical skill and creativity of ancient craftsmen.

Other options presented, such as frescoes, reliefs, and picturae, represent different forms of artistic expression. Frescoes refer to paintings done on wet plaster, reliefs are sculptural forms that project from a background surface, and picturae is a term that is less commonly used and could refer to illustrations or paintings but does not specifically denote the mosaic technique.