In the age of Rembrandt van Rijn (1606–69), 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.
As the Dutch fought for freedom from Spain, Queen Esther’s heroism came to represent their emerging nation’s identity. 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.
The Book of Esther in the Age of Rembrandt is co-organized by the Jewish Museum, New York, and the North Carolina Museum of Art. In Raleigh additional support is made possible, in part, by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources; the North Carolina Museum of Art Foundation, Inc.; The Slomo and Cindy Silvian Foundation, Inc.; and the William R. Kenan Jr. Endowment for Educational Exhibitions. Research for this exhibition was made possible by Ann and Jim Goodnight/The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation Fund for Curatorial and Conservation Research and Travel.
The exhibition is accompanied by a richly illustrated 160-page, hardcover catalogue by Abigail Rapoport with Michele L. Frederick and with contributions by Larry Silver, Antwaun Sargent, and a postscript interview with contemporary artist Fred Wilson. Co-published by the Jewish Museum and Yale University Press, the book will be available worldwide.