Cleopatra 1620 - 1664

Stefano della Bella’s etching, *Cleopatra*, from the 17th century, depicts the Egyptian queen in a dramatic pose. In the print, Cleopatra is depicted kneeling in a regal gown with her hand outstretched, perhaps reaching for a lost love. The image is framed by a text in French that describes Cleopatra’s history and relationship with Caesar and Antony. This etching is an example of Baroque-style art with its dramatic lighting and theatrical composition.