Inspired by the decoration of the Ara Pacis and the Temple of Mars Ultor in Rome, the frieze of the Maison Carrée is one of the oldest examples in Gallia Narbonensis of the acanthus motif in a high position. The very naturalistic running decoration features luxuriant vegetations of acanthus leaves, flowers and convolvulus, expressing the virtues of the Golden Age established by Augustus. Pierre Gros, a specialist in Roman architecture, considers the frieze of the temple in Nîmes to be 'the most accomplished example of symbolic decorations linked directly to the dynastic cult … '.