Feestmaal van Wasti, de vrouw van Ahasveros 1645 - 1646

Christoffel van Sichem II created this woodcut, "Feast of Vashti," capturing a pivotal banquet. Here, the crown, a dominant symbol, signifies not only royalty but also power and authority, deeply rooted in cultural memory. This emblem has traversed time, appearing in various guises across different epochs, from ancient rulers to modern-day monarchs, each iteration layering new meanings onto its form. The act of feasting itself, a shared table laden with food, embodies communal bonds and social rituals, yet here, it hints at impending discord. The queen’s central position, adorned and elevated, contrasts with the looming tension, a psychological drama unfolding on a stage set for both celebration and conflict. Notice, the non-linear progression of the crown’s symbolism—its ability to resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings, all the while carrying the weight of its storied past.