After the Audience 1879

Lawrence Alma-Tadema created this oil on panel painting, called 'After the Audience'. The artist’s painstaking, photorealistic technique is evident in the smooth surfaces of the figures and the almost palpable qualities of the textiles and marble architecture. Look closely and you will notice how this work gives an insight into the Victorian era’s fascination with classical antiquity. Alma-Tadema's work drew heavily from archaeological research and a desire to recreate historical moments with accuracy. Note the skillful rendering of marble, a material strongly associated with power and permanence. This material carries significant social and cultural weight, speaking to labor and class. In the context of ancient Rome, marble would have been quarried, transported, and carved by skilled artisans, often enslaved, reflecting the empire’s economic system. The meticulous detail suggests considerable time and effort, with labor being a crucial aspect of its creation. By emphasizing materials, making and context, we gain a deeper understanding of the full meaning of the artwork, which challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.