Cleopatra's Needle RMG PV2059, William Lionel Wyllie

Cleopatra's needle a graphite drawing of cleopatra's needle on the thames embankment in london, by the marine artist william lionel wyllie (1851-1931). The obelisk was constructed for tuthmosis iii and is carved with hieroglyphics praising him and commemorating his festival. The obelisk was brought to london with the aid of sponsorship from erasmus wilson and was erected by john dixon in 1878. It is one of a pair, the other being in central park, new york. See also paf0735. Cleopatra's needle. Date: early 20th century. Dimensions: 211 mm x 144 mm. Collection: Fine art.