Cleopatra: Roma e l’incantesimo dell’Egitto

This richly illustrated exhibition catalog explores the extraordinary life and enduring cultural legacy of Cleopatra VII (69–30 BC), the last ruler of Ptolemaic Egypt, placing her story within the broader artistic, political, and cultural history of the ancient Mediterranean world.

Through approximately 180 artworks and archaeological artifacts from major international museum collections, the publication examines the fascinating relationship between Ptolemaic Egypt and ancient Rome, revealing how Egyptian traditions, Hellenistic artistic influences, and Roman political ambitions intersected during one of antiquity’s most dramatic periods.

The catalog brings together ancient sculptures, royal portraits, mosaics, coins, and decorative objects that illuminate Cleopatra’s world and the artistic achievements of the Ptolemaic dynasty. Among the notable works are the celebrated Cleopatra Nahman, a portrait traditionally identified as Cleopatra but also associated with Octavia, a youthful Egyptian royal portrait, the Louvre’s bronze statuette known as the Guimet Alexander, and the remarkable Nile Mosaic from Priverno.

Particular attention is given to Cleopatra’s relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, her political ambitions, and her attempts to preserve Egypt’s independence amid the expanding power of Rome. Beyond the familiar legends surrounding her beauty and tragic death, the publication presents Cleopatra as an intelligent and determined ruler whose influence extended far beyond her lifetime.

Edited by Giovanni Gentili, this substantial volume offers a valuable resource for readers interested in ancient Egyptian art, Hellenistic sculpture, Roman history, classical archaeology, and the cultural heritage of the Mediterranean.