This exhibition explores the life and times of Julius Caesar, showcasing nearly 150 historical objects that detail his rise from a Roman general to his infamous downfall. It delves into his alliance with Cleopatra and his enduring legacy.
The H’ART Museum's inaugural exhibition as H’ART Museum, 'Julius Caesar: I came, I saw, I met my doom,' offers an in-depth look at the legendary figure through nearly 150 historical objects. The exhibition chronicles Caesar's journey from an ordinary Roman to a celebrated general and his subsequent assassination. Visitors can explore his strategic alliance and personal relationship with Cleopatra, examining their combined legacy which continues to influence culture from Shakespeare to modern cinema. The narrative is structured across nine scenes, beginning with the myth-making that shaped Caesar's public image. It progresses through his career as a brilliant politician and consul, his military campaigns in Gaul, and delves into the controversial aspects of his warfare. The exhibition also reconstructs the luxurious environment of Rome during Caesar's era and highlights his role as a powerful figure alongside Cleopatra, the 'ultimate power couple' who had a son, Caesarion. The plot leading to Caesar's murder is unraveled, followed by an exploration of his successor, Augustus. The exhibition concludes with an examination of Caesar's lasting legacy and invites visitors to form their own conclusions about his impact in today's world. The collection is a collaborative effort with institutions including the Expona (Bolzano), Contemporanea Progetti (Florence), Museo Archeologico Nazionale (Florence), Museo Nazionale Romano (Rome), and the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden (Leiden), among others in the Netherlands and Germany.
The exhibition design is by Anika Ohlerich of Archetypisch, with graphic design by Marline Bakker of Glamcult Studio. Curators Birgit Boelens and Natascha Wieman–Heijne MA of H’ART Museum, alongside guest curator Professor Doctor Eric Moormann, have meticulously crafted this retrospective, presenting three different bust portraits to offer insights into Caesar's potential appearance. The exhibition aims to untangle myths from reality, bringing visitors closer to the man behind the legend and prompting reflection on his complex character and actions.