tions.

5. For instance, at Tralles, Apaturius of Alabanda designed with skilful
hand the scaena of the little theatre which is there called the [Greek:
ekklesiasterion], representing columns in it and statues, Centaurs
supporting the architraves, rotundas with round roofs on them, pediments
with overhanging returns, and cornices ornamented with lions' heads,
which are meant for nothing but the rainwater from the roofs,--and then
on top of it all he made an episcaenium in which were painted rotundas,
porticoes, half-pediments, and all the different kinds of decoration
employed in a roof. The effect of high relief in this scaena was very
attractive to all who beheld it, and they were ready to give their
approval to the work, when Licymnius the mathematician came forward and
said that (6.) the Alabandines were considered bright enough in all
matters of politics, but that on account of one slight defect, the lack
of the sense of propriety, they were believed to be unintelligent. "In
their gymnasium the statues are all pleading causes, in their forum,
throwing the discus, running, or playing ball. This disregard of
propriety in the interchange of statues appropriate to different places
has brought the state as a whole into disrepute. Let us then beware lest
this scaena of Apaturius make Alabandines or Abderites of us. Which of
you can have houses or columns or extensive pediments on top of his
tiled roof? Such things are built above the floors, not above the tiled
roofs. Therefore, if we give our approval to pictures of things which
can have no reason for existence in actual fact, we shall be voluntarily
associating ourselves with those communities which are believed to be
unintelligent on account of just such defects."

7. Apaturius did not venture to make any answer, but removed the
scaena, altered it so that it conformed to reality, and gave
satisfaction with it in its improved state. Would to God that Licymnius
could come to life again and reform the present condition of folly and
mistaken practices in fresco painting! However, it may not be out of
place to explain why this false method prevails over the truth. The fact
is that the artistic excellence which the ancients endeavoured to attain
by working hard and taking pains, is now attempted by the use of colours
and the brave show which they make, and expenditure by the employer
prevents people from missing the artistic refinements that once lent
authority to works.