Two fourth-century Roman mosaics discovered in Hampshire have been temporarily barred from leaving the country after concerns they could be sold overseas.

The Government has placed the ban to allow time for a UK public collection to acquire them.

Valued at £560,000 in total, the mosaics were uncovered at a Roman villa in Fullerton, Hampshire. The villa was first excavated during ongoing research in the Upper Test Valley, and in 1904, the two mosaics were unearthed and relocated to Fullerton Manor.

UK arts minister Sir Chris Bryant said: “These mosaics dating back to the fourth century provide a rare insight into the local history of Hampshire during Roman Britain, shaping our understanding of life in the countryside during this period.

“I hope placing an export bar on these unique Roman mosaics means a UK buyer can be found so that the public can continue to have opportunities to learn about our country’s rich history and to enjoy these mosaics for generations to come.”

He decided to temporarily defer granting an export licence for the ancient mosaics, following the recommendation of the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Cultural Objects. The committee highlighted the rarity of intact mosaics from this period and emphasised their potential to offer new insights into the role of rural villas in Roman Britain.

Committee member Tim Pestle said: “Made of thousands of tiny blocks of stone called tesserae laid together to create patterns or figural scenes, they conjure up a sophisticated lifestyle in graceful houses, where the rich displayed their wealth and power,

“Although many have been revealed through excavations in Britain, the number that survive intact is tiny.”

Each mosaic features distinct and notable designs. One displays a ‘running pelta’ motif, where crescent-shaped shields are arranged in a dynamic, geometric pattern that suggests movement and energy. The pattern is made from purplish-brown and red tiles set against a white background. The pelta design, common across the Roman Empire, can be found in various locations throughout the ancient world.

The second mosaic shows geometric designs created also using purplish-brown bands of tiles set against a white background. The design consists of two separate elements, a bold design similar to a simplified city wall and a simple stonework pattern of alternating rectangles.

A potential buyer has until February 19 2025 to raise the funds to purchase one or both of the mosaics.