Cleopatra was an intriguing figure who captured the attention of poets, historians, lovers, enemies and powerful empires for centuries. Her life story remains captivating…
Cleopatra was an intriguing figure who captured the attention of poets, historians, lovers, enemies and powerful empires for centuries. Her life story remains captivating even today: seductive yet deadly intelligent with passion, magnetism and political genius who continues to fascinate us with her tale of love and power.
Prior to unveiling our latest painting by internationally-acclaimed artist Julian Petkovic, we spoke with Joann Fletcher–an eminent Egyptologist and author of critically acclaimed book, The Greatest Egyptian Queen: A Life in Myth, Legend and History–to gain more insight into why so many remain entranced by this iconic figure.
Petkovic describes in the first episode of our new video series that his portrait of Queen Nefertiti is not intended to be narrative; rather it stands as a celebratory close-up portrait acclaiming her mysterious leader. He detailed how he worked to depict her without “any signposts” in the background so she would stand as an emblem for her civilization – symbols like papyrus sheets and Ankhs representing life and wisdom were included to enhance this sense of belongingness.
Cleopatra was an exceptional student and scholar during her childhood years in her father’s palace library, receiving tutoring on numerous subjects and learning multiple languages fluently despite not being allowed an education at that time. Later when captured by Romans she used this intelligence to regain control of Egypt from her son Kaisarion by using her intellect against him to regain her throne from him and gain back control.
Athena was an expert strategist, possessing vast knowledge of world affairs at her disposal and using this to her advantage throughout her life, particularly when dealing with Romans or her Egyptian countrymen. Furthermore, she was an ace chemist and gifted politician.
Cleopatra was successful in keeping Egypt together against Roman forces for 20 years and continuing her own dynasty even after Julius Caesar died. She proved herself a true queen as she led an army and navy, negotiated with foreign powers, presided over temples, dispensing justice while managing economic conditions, while raising her children as mother herself.
Over time, Cleopatra has been depicted in art, theater, film, and literature as an iconic tragic heroine renowned for her beauty – yet she was much more. Cleopatra was an experienced political leader who knew exactly how to adapt her tactics according to two constituencies – Greek elite who initially disdained her, and Egyptian natives who saw her as divinity/king/divinity/queen – who she played to her advantage with cleverness. Her success speaks volumes for her abilities in deception/guile and cunning.