Zenobia in Chains

The dignity of this figure’s profile—with her head held high—and the intricate details of her ancient dress testify to Harriet Hosmer’s carving abilities. Zenobia ruled Palmyra (in present-day Syria) for six years after her husband’s death in 267 CE. She conquered Egypt and reigned until defeated by Roman emperor Aurelian (reigned 270–75 CE), who triumphantly marched her in chains in a procession through Rome.

Hosmer, part of a group of female sculptors working in Rome, held strong proto-feminist beliefs. For her, Zenobia embodied a woman’s ability to move beyond the constraints placed on her. Hosmer portrayed Zenobia’s strength rather than victimization. As Hosmer wrote, “I have tried to make her too proud to exhibit passion or emotion of any kind; not subdued, though a prisoner; but calm, grand, and strong within herself.”