Esther before Ahasuerus 1670 - 1730

"Esther before Ahasuerus" is an anonymous 18th-century drawing that depicts a scene from the Book of Esther. The artwork portrays a grand interior space, likely a royal court, with Esther standing before King Ahasuerus, who sits on a throne with his court. The drawing is executed in brown ink on paper, suggesting a sketch or preparatory study for a larger work. Its delicate lines and meticulous detail create a sense of grandeur and drama, capturing the tension and suspense of this biblical story. The piece is now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection, offering a glimpse into the artistic practices and religious themes of the period.