Cleopatra Dissolving the Pearl from a set of The Story of Antony and Cleopatra 1645 - 1677

This tapestry, "Cleopatra Dissolving the Pearl" by Justus van Egmont, was woven without a set date as part of the Story of Antony and Cleopatra. It portrays a moment laden with power, gender dynamics, and the spectacle of wealth. Cleopatra, a queen in her own right, is seen here engaging in a performative act of extravagance, dissolving a precious pearl in wine to impress Antony. It reflects the historical context of cross-cultural encounters and the construction of identity through displays of power. Consider the era's fascination with strong female rulers and the stereotypes of oriental opulence versus Roman strength. This work is more than just a depiction of wealth; it’s a narrative about the construction of identity, the performance of power, and the collision of cultures. How do you feel about the tapestry’s narrative of gender and power when viewing it?