MAPPA, in the public games of the Roman cir-
cus, was a napkin hung out at the prætor's or other
great magistrate's seat, as a signal for the race or other
diversions to begin. The mappa was received by the
mapparius, or person who held it, from the consul,
prætor, or other great officer. Notice was anciently
given by sound of trumpet; but Nero is said to have
introduced the mappa, by throwing his napkin out of
the window to satisfy the people, who grew noisy at the
delay of the sports while he was at dinner.