Interior of Caius Martius House 1907

Lawrence Alma-Tadema painted ‘Interior of Caius Martius House’ to capture an intimate view of domestic life in ancient Rome. Alma-Tadema was known for his detailed depictions of antiquity, and this work reflects the 19th-century Victorian fascination with classical civilizations. Here, he presents us with an idealized vision of Roman domesticity, carefully composing the scene to evoke a sense of tranquility and order. But it’s important to remember that these images often overlooked the complex social hierarchies and power dynamics inherent in Roman society, including the institution of slavery. Alma-Tadema seems less interested in historical accuracy and more in creating an alluring image of the past. The painting’s true subject might be the Victorian imagination itself, revealing a longing for a bygone era of imperial grandeur, while glossing over the exploitation and inequalities that underpinned that world.