Laurens, later Sir Lawrence, Alma Tadema was born a notary's son in the Frisian village of Dronrijp. Already at the age of 16, he began his education at the Antwerp Academy of Arts. During his trip to Pompeii in 1863, Alma Tadema conceived a love for the classical arts and architecture, which both stylistically and substantively matched his academic, precise painting style. In 1870, he moved to London, where he continued to live for the rest of his life. Alma Tadema was a beloved member of British Society, assumed English nationality and was even elevated to the peerage. Besides scenes set in antiquity, he also painted portraits and stage sets. In 1902, the painter undertook a trip to Egypt, which gave his work an inspiring new impetus. Alma Tadema?s historical accuracy was particularly remarkable for the time. His paintings were not considered reliable examples for historical films for nothing.
