Arch in the dining hall room of the Collège Sainte-Barbe, Paris 

This mosaic arch in the dining hall of the Collège Sainte-Barbe in Paris was created by Giandomenico Facchina, likely in the late 19th century. The mosaic, a medium with ancient roots, adds an air of historical gravitas to the space. The choice of a mosaic, with its small, carefully arranged tesserae, speaks to a desire for permanence and a connection to classical traditions. The designs featuring stylized floral motifs and geometric patterns, along with the monogram 'SB' for Sainte-Barbe, reflect the values of the institution. Collège Sainte-Barbe, one of the oldest colleges in Paris, has a long history of educating the elite. In its dining hall, this mosaic arch, now part of the physical and cultural fabric of the institution, visually reinforced the college's identity. Understanding this artwork requires us to delve into the history of the college, the prevailing artistic trends of the time, and the social function of art within educational institutions. By examining archival records, architectural plans, and contemporary accounts, we can piece together a more complete picture of its original purpose.