Ninety four in the Shade 1876

Lawrence Alma-Tadema painted this rural scene, Ninety-four in the Shade, in oil on panel. The painting's composition is dominated by warm, earthy tones of gold, amber, and ochre, evoking a feeling of intense summer heat. A young man is depicted lying in a field of golden wheat, seeking refuge from the sun. Alma-Tadema masterfully employs color and texture to create a sense of depth and perspective. The stokes are loose and impressionistic, particularly in the rendering of the wheat stalks, conveying the density of the field. The sky above is painted with delicate brushstrokes of pale blue, contrasting with the warmth of the ground. The young man's pose, combined with the title, suggests a contemplation on the relationship between man and nature, as he finds both physical and intellectual respite in this golden landscape. The artwork invites us to consider the ways in which we seek comfort and meaning in the world around us.