Cleopatra 1510 - 1520

Agostino Veneziano's "Cleopatra" (1510-1520), an engraving currently in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, depicts the Egyptian queen in a dramatic pose. The nude figure of Cleopatra stands with her right hand resting on a large vase, while her left hand clutches an asp at her breast. The background of the image reveals a landscape, adding to the sense of drama and tragedy. The work exemplifies Veneziano's mastery of the engraving technique. He utilizes shading and linework to create a sense of realism and depth. The image's composition and symbolism are significant, and its detail provides a glimpse into the artistic style of the Italian Renaissance.