The central panel of a mosaic pavement, usually rendered in fine technique and representing a figural scene. Emblemata (pl.) were prepared separately in the mosaic workshop and inserted into larger pavements of less complicated design.

Emblema with gorgoneion.  From the House of the Vestals (VI, 1,7), Pompeii, Italy. Roman Empire. Early 1st c. CE. Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli. Photo:  Dr. Roger Ulrich.