The Meeting of Antony and Cleopatra from a set of The Story of Antony and Cleopatra
Designed by Justus van Egmont Flemish
Weaving workshop directed by Geraert van der Strecken
Not on view
This panel depicts the moment at which Antony first sees Cleopatra, who is riding in the stern of a barge, fanned by youths dressed as cupids (as described by Plutarch). Cupid, leaning against the sail of the barge, aims an arrow at Antony, who is riding a spirited horse. The Latin inscription in the upper cartouche reads "Antony, sent to compel her, is captured by love of her." The exuberant style is typical of the tapestry designs of Justus van Egmont, who blended the dramatic figures of Rubens with a relish for billowing draperies and decorative details. Although the date of conception is unknown, sets of this design were being produced in Brussels from the early 1650s, and it evidently enjoyed considerable popularity. Several partial sets have survived, some numbering more than ten pieces.
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