Biographical Information

"Lawrence Alma-Tadema was one of the most renowned painters of late nineteenth century Britain. Universally admired for his superb draftsmanship and 'real to life' depictions of Classical antiquity he was much sought after by Victorian collectors who intimately connected with his vision. He so embraced the aspirations of his day that when the idealistic illusions of his age were shattered by modernism and the Great War his art fell from favour. Now, again, as the re-evaluation of that era is well underway his reputation is rebounding. The study of the artist and his art must begin as always with their origins ..."

This is an extract from Vern G. Swanson's landmark biography on the great Victorian artist. Dr Swanson is an acknowledged expert on Alma-Tadema and has written a critically acclaimed catalogue raisonée on the artist.

With his kind permission, the Art Renewal Center has been allowed to reprint his entire Alma-Tadema biography. This is an internet first: the complete, unabridged biography of a great master, printed with footnotes and copious illustrations. Where possible, supplementary links have been included to references in the text made to artists or personalities not so well known to twenty-first century audiences. In many cases, nineteenth century artists referred to in the text are also represented on ARC, and links have been provided to their galleries.

Further Reading:

Read the reaction of Andy to ARC's Alma-Tadema galleries ...

Art Renewal Center Articles about Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema

The Finding of Moses
Biography of Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema
Obituary of Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema

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