Mordecai overhearing the Treason of Bigtan and Teresh 1563

Maarten van Heemskerck’s 1563 drawing, “Mordecai overhearing the Treason of Bigtan and Teresh,” depicts a scene from the Book of Esther. In the foreground, Mordecai, a prominent Jewish figure, sits on a platform in a grand courtyard, overhearing a conversation between two men, Bigtan and Teresh, who are plotting against King Ahasuerus. Van Heemskerck’s detailed depiction of architecture and figures creates a sense of realism and historical accuracy, highlighting the dramatic tension of the moment. This drawing, part of the collection of the SMK - Statens Museum for Kunst, is a powerful example of the artist's skill in drawing and his interest in historical and biblical narratives.