Cleopatra of Egypt: From History to Myth.

About this book

Fabled for her sexual allure and cunning intelligence Cleopatra VII of Egypt has fascinated generations of admirers and detractors since her tumultuous life ended in suicide in 30 B.C. The last of the Ptolemaic monarchs who had ruled Egypt for three centuries Cleopatra created her own mythology. She became an icon in her own lifetime and a legend after her death. This lavishly illustrated catalogue coincides with a major international exhibition celebrating images of Cleopatra. It explores how she was depicted during her own era in works ranging from coins to life-size sculpture. Exciting new discoveries are featured--including seven Egyptian-style statues believed to represent Cleopatra and two portraits probably commissioned while she was living in Rome with Julius Caesar. The book also examines interpretations of Cleopatra from the Renaissance to modern times as seen in paintings ceramics jewelry plays operas and film. In addition recent archaeological finds from Alexandria (Cleopatras capital) and from Rome illustrate aspects of life in Cleopatras day. EXHIBITION SCHEDULE: http://www.palazzoruspoli.it Palazzo Ruspoli Rome October 12 2000-February 25 2001 http://www.thebritishmuseum.ac.uk The British Museum London April 12-August 28 2001 http://www.fmnh.org The Field Museum Chicago October 20 2001-March 2 2002