Roman wall paintings are some of the best preserved examples of ancient Roman art because they were discovered in areas buried during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, particularly Pompeii and Herculaneum. Art historians have identified four distinct styles of Roman wall painting: Incrustation, Architectonic, Ornamental, and Intricate. Roman wall paintings served purposes such as brightening homes and capturing the imagination, with different styles emphasizing techniques like perspective, mythology, and vibrant colors over time.