Surrealism Painting Death of Cleopatra by Wenda Jerrum c1960 Egyptian Mythology





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Description


Original Signed Mid-Century Surrealist Watercolour – "Death of Cleopatra" by Wenda Jerrum (c.1960) – British Narrative Surrealism – Egyptian Mythology – Framed

Subject & Medium:

Presenting an original Surrealist watercolour painting titled "Death of Cleopatra", by British artist Wenda Jerrum, created circa 1960s.

This rare and collectible piece is an outstanding example of mid-century British narrative surrealism, blending history, myth, and dreamlike distortion with emotional storytelling.

Composition & Technique – Surrealist Vision:

At first glance, the composition appears like a dramatic historical tableau, but Jerrum’s Surrealist approach becomes evident in her use of psychological symbolism, exaggerated body language, and mythical distortion of space and form.

The central figure—Cleopatra—is both queen and mythic archetype, captured mid-movement as she raises a poisoned dagger, her expression distant and otherworldly.

Surrounding her is a theatrical blur of figures—maidens in swirling gowns recoil in slow-motion horror, while a muscular figure in blue and gold appears to restrain the enormous, menacing wings of the Bennu bird (Egyptian Phoenix)—a direct Surrealist metaphor for death, transformation, and cosmic rebirth.

Key Surrealist Elements:
Distorted Spatial Reality: The figures twist and flow unnaturally, as though frozen inside a dream.
Symbolic Juxtaposition: Historical realism (Cleopatra) blends with mythic abstraction (oversized Bennu bird, exaggerated gestures).
Psychological Drama: The figures seem caught between action and paralysis, a hallmark of Surrealist narrative tension.
Colour Symbolism: Emotional states are represented not just through facial expressions but through vivid, symbolic colour choices:
Cool blues and whites: Emotional detachment, mourning
Rich golds and browns: Spiritual transcendence
Pinks and blacks: Passion, urgency, and human frailty
Geometric checkered floor: Injecting artificial depth and dreamlike spatial unreality
Jerrum’s fluid linework, layered washes, and deliberate exaggeration make this far more than a simple historical illustration—this is a psychological, surreal reinterpretation of Cleopatra’s final moments, dreamlike and deeply symbolic.

About the Sitter – Cleopatra VII (A Surrealist Muse):

Cleopatra VII (69 BCE – 30 BCE) remains one of the most mythologized women in history. In Surrealist terms, Cleopatra becomes more than a historical figure—she transforms into an eternal feminine archetype, embodying power, sexuality, loss, and self-determination.

Her fatal choice, as depicted here, feels both personal and universal, enhanced by Jerrum’s dreamlike portrayal. The surrounding figures could just as easily represent internal states of mind (fear, defiance, resignation) as actual characters.

About the Artist – Wenda Jerrum & Signature:

Wenda Jerrum, while not widely documented, is emerging as a distinctive name among collectors interested in British narrative surrealism and female mid-century voices.

Her style is marked by:

Mythic storytelling
Emotionally charged figuration
Surreal symbolism woven into historical scenes
This piece is signed clearly by the artist in the bottom right corner: “Wenda Jerrum”, authenticating its originality.

Frame & Size:

The painting is professionally presented in a recently fitted Larson Juhl Canaletto moulded frame featuring a gold and pewter foil spray finish with spoon profile design—carefully selected to complement the dramatic Surrealist tones.With museum grade AR70 front protective glass cover.

Framed Dimensions: 51 cm wide x 69 cm high x 3.5 cm depth
Ready to Hang

Provenance
Recently sourced from a Private UK Collection
Formerly held by Grays & Sons Carlisle LTD
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD

Why You’ll Love It:

Emotionally Dramatic & Visually Striking: A bold Surrealist reimagining of Cleopatra’s final moments, packed with narrative tension and psychological depth.
Rare Example of British Mid-Century Narrative Surrealism: Jerrum's works are scarce on the open market—this is a true collector’s piece.
Strong Collector Appeal: Perfect for lovers of Surrealism, Egyptian-themed art, historical narrative works, and female artists.
Immediate Visual Impact: A conversation-starting, statement piece for any home, gallery, or private collection.
Beautifully Framed & Ready to Hang: Professionally presented in a high-quality Larson Juhl frame—ready for immediate display.

Condition Report:

Artwork Condition: Good overall, with some minor foxing staining in places. Colour vibrancy remains strong.
Frame Condition: Excellent, with no major scratches, chips, or glazing issues.




Reserve: $8,576.00

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