Reliëf van Cleopatra als Isis c. 1890 - 1895

This is an anonymous relief of Cleopatra as Isis, whose date of creation remains unknown. Cleopatra, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, has been the subject of both admiration and scrutiny. Here, we see her presented as the goddess Isis, signaling the complex negotiation of identity, power, and representation that defined her reign. By associating herself with Isis, Cleopatra sought to legitimize her rule and emphasize her divine connections, a strategy that reflects the deeply embedded cultural and religious practices of ancient Egypt. This relief embodies the intersection of Greek and Egyptian cultures, illustrating how Cleopatra strategically used visual symbols to communicate her authority and elevate her status. The relief invites us to consider the multifaceted nature of identity. It prompts us to reflect on how historical figures like Cleopatra navigated the intricate web of gender, power, and cultural heritage.