I have chosen to sculpt the bust of Cleopatra. She has always interested me because of her beauty and mystique. I love the eroticism of her facial features and the story behind her. Not only was she one of the most powerful women in the world, but also one of the first.
I really admire Cleopatra. I think that what she did to save Egypt is amazing and not many people would have been able to do it. She was an early feminist and wielded power higher than that of most men. I also really admire her wit. Not many women would be smart enough to romance both Caesar and Antony in order to save their country.
A great ruler, a great mother, and a beautiful woman, Cleopatra is best known for being the last and best Queen of Egypt. She took the rule from her brothers through using Caesar’s power. She then got Egypt the protection of Rome while still remaining in control of Egypt. She also was known for being very beautiful and having many lovers. But she loved all of her children equally. Caesarius, her son with Caesar is her most known child, but she also had two children with Antony after Caesar’s death, which she loved greatly.
As I learned about Cleopatra I became very interested in her death. Cleopatra committed suicide through the bite of an Egyptian Cobra. I was surprised to learn that this cobra was in fact not just any snake but had been Cleopatra’s “pet” for years. Cleopatra apparently told her Cobra of her despairs and asked him to relieve her of life. Her Cobra then ever loyal to Cleopatra’s wishes bit her and she died.
I learned about Cleopatra’s fascination with jewelry, snakes, and men. Cleopatra was not afraid to embrace her sexuality and have men whenever she wished. She had her pet Cobra but was always interested in worshiping snakes and she believed them great protectors. She adorned herself with gold jewelry and is known for her fashion. However despite all of this, she was often sad because she felt that something was missing from her life. She was too passionate for her own good.
I want to portray Cleopatra’s tragic death through the snakebite, and perhaps her Cobra himself. I also want to somehow show her passion and her power. Perhaps holding Caesar himself in the palm of her hand. All things considered, I really want to show the power and beauty she is so famous for.