VENUS IN A GOLD BIKINI

Statuettes of Venus as well as painted statuettes found at Pompeii attest to the importance of her cult in the city. Statuettes were painted in utilitarian gardens, as well as pleasure gardens indicating the reputation of Venus as a guardian of the garden.  
In the house of Venus in Bikini a grand marble statue of Venus was discovered on a base in the atrium behind the impluvium. The statue was originally painted, but all that remains by way of decoration is traces of red paint on her lips and the gilded gold bikini, and other flourishes of gold. 
Venus’ arm is resting on a statue of Priapus while Eros looks up at her from her feet, and she crouches to adjust her sandal. Her gold bikini is an ornate decoration that makes this statue of Venus unique.