Cleopatra - Italy 17th century

Cleopatra with a Snake and a Mirror
?Italian, 17th century?
Gilded bronze?
H 14,5 cm
H (with base) 19 cm

This finely chased and gilded statuette represents Cleopatra, Queen of Egypt. She is depicted partially draped, in a graceful pose, while the asp—symbol of both death and divine royalty—coils around her arm, ready to deliver its fatal bite. In her other hand, Cleopatra holds a mirror, a traditional emblem of vanity and beauty, but here also a memento mori, a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the sovereign’s final act of self-determination. Through this combination of symbols, the iconography transcends mere historical narrative: it also aligns with the Baroque tradition of Vanitas allegories, emphasizing the ephemeral nature of life, youth, and power.
The imagery of this work draws upon the traditions of the late Renaissance and Baroque periods, when ancient heroines were frequently portrayed at moments of intense emotional drama. Cleopatra, in particular, became a favored subject, embodying dignity, nobility, and tragic beauty. The sensual modeling, the refined treatment of flesh and drapery, and the psychological depth of the composition evoke the influence of the great Italian bronze masters of the 17th century, such as Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Alessandro Algardi.
Likely intended for a private collector or to adorn a cabinet of curiosities, this statuette reflects both the refined taste and the technical virtuosity of Italian foundries of the period. The warm gilding enhances the tactile quality of the bronze and highlights the delicacy of the incised details on the robe, while the intimate scale of the work invites close and contemplative viewing.
Its iconography—imbued with themes such as mortality, sovereignty, and feminine agency—reflects the aesthetic and intellectual concerns of the Baroque era, during which ancient history was often reinterpreted through the lens of emotional drama and moral reflection.