Object Details
Artist
Lucas van Leyden
Date
1518
Medium
Engraving on laid paper
Dimensions
Image/Sheet: 10 3/4 × 8 13/16 inches (27.3 × 22.4 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of David Klasfeld
Object
Number
85.062
The Book, or “Megillah,” of Esther is read on the Jewish holiday of Purim. In this story, Esther(…)
The Book, or “Megillah,” of Esther is read on the Jewish holiday of Purim. In this story, Esther and her cousin Mordecai defend the Jewish people from the antisemitic Haman, a minister appointed by King Ahasuerus of Persia. Esther, the new queen who initially hid her Jewish identity, courageously approaches King Ahasuerus to stand up for her people and demand the punishment of Haman. In addition to the recitation of this story, Purim celebrates the strength of the Jewish people with feasts, costume and mask wearing, and triangular cookies called hamantaschen. —Rayna Klugherz ’23
