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Cleopatra by Oscar Spalmach
Cleopatra by Oscar Spalmach
Cleopatra by Oscar Spalmach
Cleopatra by Oscar Spalmach
Cleopatra by Oscar Spalmach
Cleopatra by Oscar Spalmach

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Cleopatra by Oscar Spalmach

  • Oscar Spalmach created this incredible sculpture in the renowned Studio O. Andreoni in Rome
  • It captures the tragic grace of Cleopatra, one of history's most alluring figures
  • Here she is in a poignant moment of solemn introspection, just before her famous suicide
  • Cleopatra appears lost in contemplation, reflecting on the act she is about to commit—placing a venomous snake upon her arm
  • Get complete item description here
$278,500
Item No. 31-8588

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Description
Oscar Spalmach
1864-1917 | Italian

Cleopatra

Marble

This exquisite 19th-century white and grey marble sculpture of Cleopatra, signed by Oscar Spalmach and created in the renowned Studio O. Andreoni in Rome, captures the tragic grace of one of history's most important figures. Spalmach masterfully portrays Cleopatra in a poignant moment of introspection, just before her famous and fateful decision to take her own life. As she gazes at her arm, Cleopatra appears. . .
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Oscar Spalmach
1864-1917 | Italian

Cleopatra

Marble

This exquisite 19th-century white and grey marble sculpture of Cleopatra, signed by Oscar Spalmach and created in the renowned Studio O. Andreoni in Rome, captures the tragic grace of one of history's most important figures. Spalmach masterfully portrays Cleopatra in a poignant moment of introspection, just before her famous and fateful decision to take her own life. As she gazes at her arm, Cleopatra appears lost in contemplation, reflecting on the act she is about to commit—placing a venomous snake upon it. The sculpture conveys her inner turmoil and resolve, capturing the complexity of her final moments with striking realism. The intricate details—from the finely rendered folds of her garments to her dignified yet resigned expression—showcase Spalmach's remarkable ability to imbue marble with lifelike emotion and texture.

Oscar Spalmach, working within the studio of Orazio Andreoni—a name synonymous with excellence in Italian sculpture—exhibited his work at the World's Fairs and across Europe, gaining recognition for his contribution to the art world. The collaboration within Andreoni's studio, noted for its influential role in the artistic renaissance of the period, offered Spalmach an unparalleled platform for his talent. This sculpture, likely produced under Andreoni's supervision, stands as a testament to the studio's legacy and Spalmach's artistry, securing their place in the pantheon of great sculptors.

Brief History of Cleopatra:
Cleopatra VII, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, remains one of history's most compelling figures, celebrated for her intelligence, political acumen and legendary beauty. This sculpture is said to be one of the finest portrayals of the ancient queen in existence. Born in 69 BCE, Cleopatra ascended the throne alongside her brothers, later consolidating power as sole ruler. Cleopatra's reign was marked by alliances and relationships with two of Rome's most powerful figures, Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, through which she sought to preserve Egypt's independence amidst Roman expansion.

After the defeat of her and Antony's forces at the Battle of Actium in 31 BCE, and Antony's subsequent suicide, Cleopatra faced the prospect of capture by Octavian (the future Emperor Augustus). Rather than endure humiliation as a captive in Rome, she chose to take her own life in 30 BCE. According to tradition, she used a venomous snake, to administer the fatal bite. This act symbolized both her defiance of Roman domination and her desire to control her own fate, solidifying her legacy as a powerful and tragic figure in history.

19th century

75" high x 37" wide x 30" deep
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Cleopatra by Oscar Spalmach
Period: 1816-1918
Origin: Italy
Type: Sculpture
Depth: 30.0 in. (76.2 cm)
Width: 37.0 in. (93.98 cm)
Height: 75.0 in. (190.5 cm)
4 of the World's Most Iconic Marble Statues
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Famous Sculptors Throughout the Ages
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Buy With Confidence

For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.

On Approval

On Approval

Examine select works in person before you commit

125% Guarantee

125% Guarantee

Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years

Trusted Expertise

Trusted Expertise

Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists

Learn More

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