The paintings of Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema (1836-1912) reveal more about 19th century taste than those of any other artist of the era. His elaborate reconstructions of ancient Rome depicting elegant women and his eroticism were adored by the Victorians. This book contains some of Alma-Tadema's most beautiful paintings and surveys his career and personality. His stylistic changes are investigated as is his work in other media, such as his theatrical and costume designs and his work in architecture and Hollywood film sets.