Cleopatra and Mummy Portraits

In the sands of the necropolis, Bassem discovers a remarkable mummy portrait painted using the encaustic technique by Greek artists. These lifelike portraits were unique in Egyptian art and were used to help spirits recognize themselves in the afterlife. The portrait found depicts a Greek woman from Cleopatra's era, showcasing intricate details like her emerald necklace and purple tunic. Tomb robbers likely damaged the portrait, leaving it as a treasure for modern discovery. This find highlights the blend of Greek and Egyptian customs during the Ptolemaic period, reflecting Cleopatra's respect for Egyptian traditions and her ability to rule a multicultural empire.

What technique did Greek artists use to create mummy portraits in Egypt?

• Encaustic

• Watercolor

• Oil painting

• Fresco

Where did Greek artists travel from to create these portraits?

• Athens

• Rome

• Sparta

• Alexandria

What is depicted in the discovered mummy portrait?

• A Roman soldier

• An Egyptian pharaoh

• A Greek woman

• A Greek man

What historical period does the mummy portrait belong to?

• Roman Empire

• Cleopatra's reign

• Byzantine Empire

• Old Kingdom of Egypt

Why did tomb robbers leave the broken portrait behind?

• It was too heavy

• It was useless in fragments

• They were caught

• It was cursed

What was the purpose of placing portraits on mummies?

• To identify the deceased

• To decorate the tomb

• To show wealth

• To help the spirit remember its appearance

During which period did the tradition of lifelike portraits continue?

• New Kingdom

• Middle Kingdom

• Old Kingdom

• Ptolemaic period

How did Cleopatra influence Greek and Egyptian cultures?

• By embracing Egyptian traditions

• By promoting Greek language

• By isolating Greek communities

• By banning Egyptian customs

What was Cleopatra's strategy to gain favor with Egyptians?

• Respecting old traditions

• Building new temples

• Reducing taxes

• Conquering new lands

What was the result of Cleopatra's cultural policies?

• An isolated Egypt

• A decline in Greek influence

• A prosperous multicultural empire

• A divided empire