Explore the Fusion of History and Contemporary Art of Cleopatra in Paris

History and contemporary art come together at the new Cleopatra exhibition held at the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris.

Cleopatra's Kiosk by Shourouk Rhaiem

Famously portrayed by Elizabeth Taylor on the big screen, Cleopatra has always been an alluring figure both in history and pop culture. The Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris is hosting Le Mystère Cléopâtre, a comprehensive exhibition bringing together archeological artefacts as it takes the visitors through her reign as the last pharaoh of Egypt. The exhibition also weaves through the iconic legend that she became. With an image that is instantly recognisable, Cleopatra has since become synonymous with power, intellect and charisma, lending itself to a world of marketing as demonstrated in Shourouk Rhaiem's Cleopatra's Kiosk, a colourful installation created with everyday products including soap and rice, all boasting the queen's image. This is an intriguing show that fuses history with pop culture, becoming both an education and entertainment in the form of the Egyptian queen.