The Cleopatra Pendant showcases a remarkable 28 mm bronze coin, minted in Alexandria between 186–175 BCE. The coin is tastefully set in 18 karat rose gold, its design enhanced by 62 black diamonds that seamlessly continue the missing pellet border around Isis. The pendant is suspended from a black rhodium-plated silver chain, featuring Sassi’s signature gold lock for the Tanit collection. The S-shaped lock draws inspiration from historical jewellery clasps found in ancient designs.
On the coin, Cleopatra I is depicted as the goddess Isis, wearing a wreath of corn or barley and her distinctive corkscrew locks.
Following the unexpected death of her husband in 180 BCE, Cleopatra I found herself in a precarious position as regent for her six-year-old son, Ptolemy VI. As a Ptolemaic queen ruling in a politically fragile moment, she needed to consolidate power and secure support. In a brilliant and calculated political move, Cleopatra associated herself with Isis, the powerful Egyptian goddess of motherhood, life, and the afterlife, revered for millennia by the Egyptian population.
Cleopatra went beyond mere symbolism: she adopted the attire of Isis for ceremonial occasions to align herself visually with the goddess. More importantly, coins like this one became a widespread and effective means of mass communication, displaying her divine authority to a far-reaching audience across Egypt and beyond. By presenting herself as Isis, Cleopatra reinforced her legitimacy as a ruler and undermined potential opposition, positioning herself as divinely chosen and protected. Her strategy succeeded, solidifying her power during a vulnerable time for the Ptolemaic dynasty.
Graded Very Fine (VF), the coin’s condition enhances its historical significance and beauty. This pendant is a unique fusion of history, artistry, and timeless elegance, capturing Cleopatra’s mastery of political symbolism.
