This piece, Cleopatra Seducing The Serpent, is a bronze sculpture crafted by French artist Henri Honoré Plé. The artwork embodies a dramatic and romanticized portrayal of the ancient Egyptian Queen Cleopatra, known for her beauty, intelligence, and political acumen.

In the sculpture, Cleopatra is rendered in an evocative pose, with her body twisting elegantly as she seems to attract and interact with a serpent. The serpent is a powerful symbol in the context of Cleopatra's historical narrative—it is traditionally associated with her tragic death by suicide via the bite of an asp (a venomous snake).

The attention to detail in the work is remarkable, from the textures of her attire and the intricate patterns of her jewelry to the expression on her face that conveys a mix of seduction, determination, and defiance. Cleopatra's pose, with one arm raised gracefully and the other holding the serpent, creates a sense of movement and a narrative moment that invites viewers to imagine the story unfolding.

The sculpture itself has a dark patina, likely to give the bronze an aged look, which enhances the depth and contours of the figure, making the details more pronounced and giving the sculpture a lifelike presence.

Overall, Cleopatra Seducing The Serpent, by Henri Honoré Plé is a work that captivates through its historical reference, artistic execution, and the dynamic moment it captures, offering a window into the legend of Cleopatra and her enduring allure across centuries.