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Promise of Spring
Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema (Dutch (active in England), 1836–1912)
1890
Medium/Technique
Oil on panel
Dimensions
38.1 x 22.5 cm (15 x 8 7/8 in.)
Credit Line
Bequest of Frances M. Baker
Accession NumberRES.39.94
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsEurope
ClassificationsPaintings
Alma-Tadema's later works are often small-scale, sentimental images of young lovers. In Promise of Spring, he created a highly romanticized and lush setting through the use of color and detail. The arched branches and intricate blooms of the tree meet the curved bodies of the lovers below. This movement frames the outward gaze of the female figure, whose pose exudes a relaxed beauty. The painting also presents such subtle, classicizing details as the marble architectural elements and the ancient dress.
InscriptionsCenter right: L Alma Tadema / Op CCC III
ProvenanceBy 1910, with Arthur Tooth and Sons (?), London, England, Paris, France, and New York, NY [see note 1]. By 1939, Frances M. Baker, Boston, MA; 1939, bequest of Frances M. Baker to the MFA. (Accession Date: November 9, 1939)
NOTES:
[1] see Dircks, Rudolf, "The Later Works of Sir L. Alma-Tadema," (1910), p 14, where lists "by permission of Messrs. Arthur Tooth and Sons." Tooth had another painting titled "The Voice of Spring," in stock 1910, but its dimensions were 19 1/4" x 45 3/4".
NOTES:
[1] see Dircks, Rudolf, "The Later Works of Sir L. Alma-Tadema," (1910), p 14, where lists "by permission of Messrs. Arthur Tooth and Sons." Tooth had another painting titled "The Voice of Spring," in stock 1910, but its dimensions were 19 1/4" x 45 3/4".