The death of Cleopatra Cleopatra, (169-30 B.C.), was Queen of Egypt (51-30 B.C.). She was famous for her beauty and was the mistress first of Julius Caesar and later of Mark Antony. The latter, suggested to her a division of the Orient that would make her «Queen of the queens». At the battle of Actium, however, Antony's and Cleopatra's forces were beaten by the fleet of Octavian ( Augustus) who considered this union a threat for Rome. In turn he invaded Egypt. Antony's troops were again defeated and he took his own life. Cleopatra, rather than accept defeat, also committed suicide by letting herself be bitten by a cobra or an asp. (The death of Cleopatra is mentioned in Plutarch 44:86). The enamel panel set on the back of this watch was almost certainly painted by Jean V Mussard and most probably cones from an early 18th century Swiss watch. Musard Jean V (1681 - 1754) Son of Jean IV, he was a goldsmith and became Master on December 7, 1699. He was a painter on enamel and much influenced by the style of the Freres l-luaud. He went into partnership with his son Jean-Antoine and also trained several pupils: Gabriel Fontaine, Anch-e Oettner, and in 1712, Germain Collation. Two of his best known works are Ronan Charily and Religious Scene. His signature appears as: «Mussarcl», ?Jean Mussard pinx», Mussard pinx».