Cabinet with scenes from the Story of Esther

Unknown

after 1665 · Wood; silk satin worked with silk, metal threads (metal strip wrapped silk, silk-wrapped coiled wire, wire) linen thread, seed pearls, mica, feathers; detached buttonhole, buttonhole filling variations; French knot, single knot, laid work, couching, satin, and stem stitches; metal thread trim (metal strip wrapped on silk core; metal strip) wood frame; silk lining; mirror glass, glass bottles; printed paper · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

During the seventeenth century biblical stories featuring heroines such as Esther, who courageously interceded on behalf of her people with her husband, the Persian king Ahasuerus (depicted on the lid), were popular as instructive examples for young women. Enclosing a mirror, the lid of this cabinet opens to reveal a tray with writing implements. The central compartment is lined with a landscape drawing, which is reflected in tiny mirrors placed at an angle, offering perspective views not unlike the interior of contemporary collectors’ cabinets. The front panels give access to tiny drawers.

Artist

Unknown

Date

after 1665

Medium

Wood; silk satin worked with silk, metal threads (metal strip wrapped silk, silk-wrapped coiled wire, wire) linen thread, seed pearls, mica, feathers; detached buttonhole, buttonhole filling variations; French knot, single knot, laid work, couching, satin, and stem stitches; metal thread trim (metal strip wrapped on silk core; metal strip) wood frame; silk lining; mirror glass, glass bottles; printed paper

Culture

British

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Gift of Irwin Untermyer, 1964