The true appearance of Cleopatra VII, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, remains a subject of debate and speculation. Historical records from her time do not provide a definitive description of her physical appearance. Most of what we know comes from ancient coins, sculptures, and writings, which vary in style and interpretation.
Coins minted during her reign often feature her profile, but they may have been idealized. Some historians suggest she had features typical of her Macedonian Greek ancestry, including a prominent nose and a strong jawline. Additionally, ancient writers like Plutarch and Cassius Dio depicted her as charming and intellectually captivating rather than focusing on her physical beauty.
Artistic representations, especially from later periods, have often romanticized her appearance, contributing to various myths and interpretations. Ultimately, Cleopatra's legacy is more about her political acumen and influence than her appearance.
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