Comparatively few other works of plastic art, in which we here include coins, that could render us familiar with our heroine's appearance, have been preserved.
Though the author must especially desire to render his creation a work of art, it is also requisite to strive for fidelity.

As the heroine's portrait must reveal her true character, so the life represented here must correspond in every line with the civilization of the period described.

For this purpose we placed Cleopatra in the centre of a larger group of people, whom she influences, and who enable her personality to be displayed in the various relations of life.
Should the author succeed in making the picture of the remarkable woman, who was so differently judged, as "lifelike" and vivid as it stamped itself upon his own imagination, he might remember with pleasure the hours which he devoted to this book.
GEORG EBERS TUTZING ON THE STARNBERGER SEE, October 5, 1893.
CLEOPATRA..