The Book of Esther in the Age of Rembrandt

In the age of Rembrandt van Rijn (1606 – 1669), the biblical Book of Esther was a key source of inspiration for diverse communities in Holland, both Jewish and Christian. Traditionally, the Esther story is read annually on the Jewish holiday of Purim. For immigrant Jewish communities living with new freedom in more tolerant Amsterdam, celebrating Purim—notably through finely produced Esther scrolls and theater productions—became meaningful expressions of Jewish culture.
For the Dutch, Queen Esther’s heroism came to represent their emerging nation’s identity as they fought for freedom from Spain. Rembrandt and other Dutch artists depicted essential scenes from Esther’s story in paintings, prints, drawings, and decorative arts, transforming her into a new heroine for a new century. Featuring more than 120 objects from collections across the world, this exhibition showcases the impact and popularity of Esther’s story and gives expression to its full range of meanings in Rembrandt’s time and beyond.