Day 13: Amalasuintha, queen of the Ostrogoths. She reigned in Italy on behalf of her son Athalaric until his death and then as queen regnant alongside her cousin Theodahad. Amalasuintha favored Roman learning and lifestyle, and insisted that she take on the masculine role in her partnership with Theodahad, both of which pushed the Ostrogoths to favor her cousin and depose her.

Amalasuintha (495 – 30 April 535) was a ruler of Ostrogothic Kingdom from 526 to 535. She ruled first as regent for her son Athalaric and thereafter as queen. Amalasuintha was highly educated and was praised by both Cassiodorus, and Procopius for her wisdom and her ability to speak three languages, (Greek, Gothic, Latin).

just a fun little meditation on dying empires. no reason.

Amalasonthe, costume from CNCS (French National Centre for Stage Costumes)