The Meeting of Antony and Cleopatra (after a design from the Story of Cleopatra series)
Tapestry, monumental wall hanging • Flemish or French workshop; after designs by Justus van Egmont (1601–1674)
Style & Movement
Baroque Revival / Historicism
Medium & Technique
Hand-woven textile; wool and possibly silk threads using a low-warp or high-warp loom technique, featuring intricate hatching for shading effect
Creation Period
Late 19th to early 20th century (likely a high-quality historicist reproduction)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8 x 10 feet; large-scale landscape format
Subject Description
A narrative scene depicting Marcus Antonius (Antony) in Roman military attire embracing Cleopatra VII. The composition includes an attendant in the background, architectural elements (possible palace interior), and a wide decorative border with floral and foliate motifs. It symbolizes romantic and political alliance.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Fair; visible undulation in the weave and significant fading of organic dyes (expected for its age)
Estimated Market Value
$3,000 - $7,000 USD (Reflecting its status as a high-quality later reproduction rather than a 17th-century original)
Auction Estimate
$2,500 - $5,000 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely acquired through a high-end decorator or estate sale in the mid-20th century. Reproductions of this series were popular in grand European and American residences.
Art Historical Significance
The 'Story of Cleopatra' was one of the most successful tapestry cycles of the 17th century Baroque period. This piece represents the enduring influence of Flemish design and the 19th-century desire for grand, historical interiors.
Notable Features
The border design is characteristic of the Brussels workshops; the heavy use of verdigris-toned greens and ochres suggests the aging of specific vegetable dyes over the last century.
Condition Issues
Visible fading/sun damage to the dyes, light soiling, structural tension from hanging by a single rod causing 'scalloping' at the top edge, and possible fraying near the borders.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional textile cleaning to remove dust; installation of a Velcro hanging system to distribute weight evenly; placement away from direct UV light/windows to prevent further fading.