Artwork
Esther before Ahasuerus
Esther before Ahasuerus is a print by the Renaissance artist Lucas van Leyden. It dates from 1518 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Esther before Ahasuerus is a 1518 print by Lucas van Leyden, a Dutch artist known for his work in engravings and woodcuts.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a scene where a kneeling woman, likely Esther, presents a scroll to a group of men, possibly Ahasuerus and his courtiers. The narrative is drawn from biblical history, and the woman's pose suggests she is making a plea or request.
Technique & Style
The black-and-white print has a textured appearance, characteristic of relief printing, where ink is applied to a carved surface. The detailed scene includes a range of figures and a background with a castle, indicating a blend of observation and historical subject matter.
History & Provenance
The print is an example of Lucas van Leyden's work in the early 16th century. Although the provided information does not specify the current location of 'Esther before Ahasuerus', it is known that some of his works are held in various museum collections, including The Cleveland Museum of Art.
Artist & collection
Artist
Lucas van Leyden (1494 – 8 August 1533), was a Dutch painter and printmaker in engraving and woodcut. Lucas van Leyden was among the first Dutch exponents of genre painting and was a very accomplished engraver.
Salome with the head of St John the Baptist
The Virgin and Child
Worship of the Golden Calf
A Game of Chess
Mary with Child, St. Maria Magdalena and founder (separate outside, Inv. No. 7713)
Inner left wing of a diptych with Christ as the Man of Sorrows
Inner right wing of a diptych with the Virgin as Mater Dolorosa
Annunciation
