The Balneator 

Lawrence Alma-Tadema rendered The Balneator with watercolor on paper, showcasing his technical virtuosity and deep engagement with antiquity. Tadema was fascinated by the material culture of ancient Rome, known for depictions of marble, textiles, and metalwork. He used watercolor to mimic the textures and colors of these diverse materials, achieving a high degree of realism. The Balneator, or bath attendant, stands before a marble fountain, his skin contrasting with the cool stone. The attention to detail extends to his garments and accessories, rendered with precision. Tadema's paintings weren't just about aesthetics. They also reflect the social and economic realities of his time. The Balneator, while a figure from the past, also evokes the labor and class structures of the Victorian era, the labor of the servant class who maintained the luxurious lifestyle of the wealthy. It's a glimpse into the past, made relevant by its connection to the present.