Plato's Academy mosaic was constructed in the 1st century BC, in the villa of T. Siminius Stephanus in Pompeii. The mosaic features seven men: six students and, presumably, their teacher, Plato. All the figures are deep in contemplation or discussion. The central man, most likely Plato, seems to be pointing at something with a stick. The traditional interpretations believe he is gesturing at the globe seen in the foreground. The elements surrounding the philosophers, the sacred gateway with vases, the tree and the votive column, are all typical of a mythological landscape. In the background there is a view of the acropolis of Athens. The border depicts elaborate festoons of leaves, fruits, and theatrical masks of fantastic creatures, as was common during this time period.