Illustrated Companion to the Latin Dictionary/Sparsio

This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domain: Rich, Anthony (1849). The illustrated companion to the Latin dictionary, and Greek lexicon. p. vi. OCLC 894670115. https://archive.org/details/illustratedcompa00rich. 

SPAR'SIO. An artificial sprinkling, or mist (nimbus, Mart. Spect. 3. Id. v. 25.) of scented waters, made to fall over the interior of a theatre or amphitheatre by means of pipes and machinery. (Senec. Controv. v. Praef. Id. Ep. 90. Q. N. ii. 9.) This treat was not an ordinary occurrence, but given occasionally by the munificence of some individual; and consequently it was customary to announce it by an advertisement (album) posted in prominent parts of the city, such as the following found at Pompeii. — VENATIO . ATHLETÆ . SPARSIONES . VELA ERUNT. That is, "There will be a hunt of wild beasts, an exhibition of athletic contests, a discharge of perfumed waters, and an awning over the spectators."

2. A scattering of presents to be scrambled for by the people (Stat. Sylv. i. 6. 65. Compare Suet. Cal. i. 8. Dom. 4.); same as MISSILIA.