Herbert G Schmalz - Zenobia's last look on Palmyra, 1888
depicts the fall of the Palmyrene Empire in the 3rd century CE. Zenobia, its ambitious queen, had expanded her realm into Roman territory until Emperor Aurelian defeated her in 272 CE. Ancient sources and many scholars believe Aurelian spared her life, perhaps out of respect for her intelligence and courage, choosing to parade her in his triumph rather than execute her.
His gaze in the painting reflects that complex mix of victory and reluctant admiration.
In Album: Jimmy's Timeline Photos
Dimension:
1024 x 1226
File Size:
178.11 Kb
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