In 1909, archaeologists excavating the city of Pompeii uncovered a Roman villa that still contained painted frescoes on the walls of one of its rooms. The artwork depicted the mystery rites of a religious cult associated with Dionysus. Images included scenes of women cavorting with fauns and winged figures, and undergoing ritual ecstasies, dancing, and flagellation. Researchers dubbed this dwelling the “Villa of the Mysteries.” In 1924, archaeologist Francis Kelsey commissioned Italian artist Maria Barosso to create a replica of the wall paintings. Using watercolors, Kelsey painted 21 paper-on-canvas panels…
