Did Roman and Bzantine artists make mosaics by pressing marble or glass tesserae into cement or plaster?

Yes, Roman and Byzantine artists created mosaics by pressing small pieces of marble, glass, or other materials, known as tesserae, into a bed of cement or plaster. This technique allowed for intricate designs and vibrant colors, which were often used to decorate floors, walls, and ceilings in public and private spaces. The careful placement of tesserae created detailed images and patterns that have survived for centuries.