Cleopatra and the Pearl (oil on board)

Cleopatra VII Philopator (69 BC-30 BC), last effective pharaoh of Egypt's Ptolemaic dynasty and mother of Julius Caesar; it is said that Cleopatra made a banquet for Antony during which she took a pearl ear-drop, dissolved it in acid and drank to the health of the Roman triumvir; Cleopatra on left with pale blue dress and yellow cloak, looks at pearl held up in left hand. Antony in armour, helmet and red cloak proffers a dish, with pleading look. Page at bottom left holds out salver and looks back, while spectator on right regards pearl. Moulded gilt frame.