The Siesta 1868

"The Siesta" by Lawrence Alma-Tadema depicts a scene of leisure in ancient Rome, 1868. The painting portrays a woman reclining on a couch while a young woman plays a flute, their peace disturbed only by a bearded man seated on a nearby couch. The scene is filled with details of Roman life, including a statue of a classical athlete, a vase, and fruit on a table. Alma-Tadema was renowned for his meticulous attention to historical accuracy, and "The Siesta" is a testament to his mastery of this genre. The artist’s interest in Roman antiquity and his ability to depict the daily life of ancient Romans drew significant public interest in the late 19th century.