The Triumph of Caesar from The Story of Caesar and Cleopatra c. 1680

The Triumph of Caesar from The Story of Caesar and Cleopatra is a tapestry by Geraert Peemans which celebrates military victory and political power. Woven without a specific date, its grandeur is reflective of the social and cultural values that were esteemed during its production. Imagine the weight of history woven into the fabric. Caesar, a figure of immense historical importance, is depicted in triumph. But whose triumph is it really? It is a spectacle designed to impress, a narrative crafted to perpetuate power. Notice how the tapestry itself is a symbol of wealth and status, commissioned no doubt by someone eager to align themselves with Caesar's legacy. The Story of Caesar and Cleopatra is charged with gendered and political implications. Cleopatra, often portrayed as a seductress, is part of a narrative shaped by male dominance. The tapestry doesn’t simply depict history; it actively participates in constructing it.