French Artist, Esther Fainting Before Ahasuerus, 1770, Oil on Canvas

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French painting from the second half of the 18th century. Oil on canvas artwork depicting a scene from the Old … Read more French painting from the second half of the 18th century. Oil on canvas artwork depicting a scene from the Old Testament, Esther fainting before Ahasuerus. Esther is a young Jewish woman, a heroic figure, as, thanks to her courage, she saved her people from persecution due to the hostility of Aman, minister of the king of Persia. Upon the death of her parents, Esther was adopted by her cousin Mordecai, a court dignitary. The king immediately fell in love with her and, despite being unaware of her origins, chose her as his wife. When the prime minister Aman decided to exterminate all the Jews in the kingdom, Mordecai urged her to present herself to the king to intercede on behalf of her fellow countrymen. The scene depicted here recalls the dramatic moment in which Esther, having gone before Ahasuerus, fainted in front of the king who was enraged by her audacity. In fact, anyone who dared to present himself spontaneously before the king was punished with capital punishment. However, Ahasuerus, impressed by the audacity of his young and beautiful wife, allowed her to express her request. Thanks to Esther's intercession, therefore, the edict was cancelled. This painting is certainly inspired by a print of the engraving by Jacques Firmin Beauvarlet (Abbeville 1731 - 1797) taken from a painting by Jean-François de Troy (1679 - 1752). Between 1736 and 1742, Jean-François de Troy prepared seven cartoons with The Stories of Esther useful for the creation of Gobelin tapestries. The one depicting The Fainting of Esther, preserved in the Grand Palais of the Musée du Louvre, was completed in 1737. Elegant 19th century frame in carved and gilded wood, with some signs of aging. Painting already restored with relining, replacement of the frame and repainting in small spots. Overall in excellent condition. Sight size H 57 x W 48 cm. See less