did you check size of database tables? if there was no cleaning made, you can be surprised how much data is stored there, and some of the tables can have huge impact on BO speed.
I was mistaken, niara do not hide images not associated with selected combination. It only shows combination cover image.
However, it's not complicated to implement this. You need to modify file themes/niara/js/product.js - search for function refreshProductImages and add hiding/showing logic for images
You should go to the performance tab and switch profiling on. Then refresh the slow backoffice page and scroll down. There you will have the information what is loading slowly. You can also post a screenshot here, if you have difficulties to interpretate the information.
IMPORTANT: after quick test you need to deactivate this setting asap. Cause this profiling information is also loading in your FrontOffice shop. So your customer would see it as well.