Illustration XLI: Queen Vashti refuses to come to the royal feast at King Ahaseurus's command. She is denounced and removed from her position (Esther 1). c. 16th century

Editor: This anonymous illustration depicts a scene from the Book of Esther, where Queen Vashti refuses King Ahasuerus' command. It’s striking how the figures are arranged almost like a stage play. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I see a visual encoding of power dynamics. Notice the king's central, elevated position, contrasted with the more fluid, arguably anxious gestures of those around the table. The plate is empty; there’s no sustenance here but ego. What does Vashti’s absence signify to you? Editor: Perhaps a disruption of the patriarchal order, a nascent form of female agency? Thanks, I learned a lot today. Curator: Indeed. Visual symbols speak volumes across time. I enjoyed our discussion.