Cléopâtre - Isidore de Rudder (1855 - 1943)

"Cleopatra" by Isidore de Rudder (1855-1943) is a magnificent bronze bust with dual patina, set on a "Brèche Violette" marble base with a brass support. The sculpture, signed "I. De Rudder" and stamped by the foundry "H. Luppens & Cie", is in perfect condition. The fine chiseling of the snake and crown's flowers reflects remarkable craftsmanship. This bust recalls Cleopatra’s legendary suicide by snake venom after her defeat by Octavian.

Isidore de Rudder, a Belgian sculptor, was born in Brussels in 1855. Trained at the Brussels Academy, he began exhibiting in 1880 and won the second Rome Prize in 1882. Throughout his career, he created many monumental works and busts, using various materials such as bronze, marble, ivory, and ceramics. He also taught at the Brussels Academy. His works, often influenced by Art Nouveau and later Art Deco, are displayed in various museums and public spaces."