An expert self-promoter, Bernhardt constantly redefined herself and her roles, which she seemed to choose based on their potential for scandal and publicity. She actively encouraged rumors about her personal life—including that she slept in a coffin—to reinforce the cult of her international celebrity. Known as the “Divine Sarah,” Bernhardt is presented here as the heroine saint Joan of Arc, who miraculously led the French army to victory in the 15th century. Bernhardt was also an accomplished sculptor. She produced a bronze inkwell (displayed nearby) between her appearances in the melodrama Le Sphinx. The actress cast herself as that hybrid creature, perched with a horned skull atop a stack of books. On either side, she placed the masks of tragedy and comedy. The self-portrait of Bernhardt-as-sphinx operates as a metaphor for her ability to transform herself on- and off-stage.