Clodius Disguised as a Woman from The Story of Caesar and Cleopatra c. 1680

Editor: So, this textile, “Clodius Disguised as a Woman from The Story of Caesar and Cleopatra,” dates from around 1680 and was woven by Geraert Peemans. It’s…intense. Everyone’s in such a hurry, so agitated! What underlying stories do you see woven into this dramatic scene? Curator: Indeed. Look at how the figures surge and recoil! The dynamism speaks volumes about the era's understanding of power, betrayal, and deception. Do you notice the costuming, and how even the textures of the fabrics contribute to this narrative? Editor: Definitely! All of those flowing garments really amp up the movement, almost like a Baroque painting. But is there a significance to Clodius’s disguise, something beyond just plot? Curator: Absolutely. Transvestitism, especially within political machinations, carried profound symbolic weight. It signified a disruption of the natural order, challenging gender roles and societal norms. Consider how often, historically, clothing acts as a signifier. Who wears the pants – literally and figuratively? Editor: That makes sense! The manipulation of identity... So, the tapestry's portraying a story but also commenting on gender and power dynamics. How interesting! Curator: Precisely. And how cultural memory shapes the interpretation of these symbols over time. Even the decorative borders laden with fruit and flowers create a striking contrast to the chaos within. This, too, serves as a visual clue, hinting at underlying themes of plenty amidst political turmoil. Do you find it resonates still today? Editor: I do! It shows how some power dynamics play out through symbols, regardless of the specific time. Thanks for pointing that out.