Sir Lawrence Alma Tadema 1836-1912

Lawrence Alma-Tadema was born in Friesland in the Netherlands, but settled in London in 1870. He was incredibly succesful in Victorian England and was one of the most celebrated and best paid artists of his day. He specialised in reconstructing classical customs and traditions. His representations were based on the latest archeological discoveries and painted in amazing detail. He evoked, with the cool marble, deep-blue seas, costly fabrics and elegant figures 8211; all of which was stylised according to Victorian sentiments 8211; a poetic picture of the classical world. Not only were Alma-Tadema's paintings characterized by almost obsessive attention to detail, but also by exceptional light effects, compositions with breathtaking perspectives and delightful glimpses. These illusionistic tricks, which had the effect af drawing the viewer into painting, were later to be adopted by Hollywood film industry. This publication provides a good overview of his oeuvre, plus a refreshing new look at one of the most interesting personalities of the turn of the century. A wide range of topics is discussed, from Tadema's early period in Belgium, the furnishing of his imposing villa, the revival of the classical period in England, the influence of photography, the role of the critics and the link with Symbolism.