Every year on the 14th of august, ancient Romans praised, danced, drank and partied all night long to honor and worship the god of fire, Vulcan. On this “Vulcanalia” livestock was offered in huge bonfires outside the city walls. This would temper the god’s temperament and prevent the crops from wildfires. Professions having to do with fire and ovens also benefitted by Vulcans good mood. Bakers and smiths hoped for good business. The mosaic on this oven symbolizes the bonfires with the golden souls of livestock offerings swirling from it's flames.
See it at O'Pazzo Due