Getting started with the collection:
Cleopatra’s Banquet
Gerard de Lairesse (mentioned on object), c. 1675 - c. 1680
Who could throw the most lavish banquet? This was the bet between the Egyptian pharaoh Cleopatra and the Roman general Mark Antony. Cleopatra won the wager by dissolving a pearl in vinegar and then drinking the mixture. In this painting, she is just removing her earring. De Lairesse painted this story like a scene from a play, with antique costumes and classical architecture.
- Artwork typepainting
- Object numberSK-A-2115
- Dimensionsheight 74 cm x width 95.5 cm
- Physical characteristicsoil on canvas