Post by TEFAF

TEFAF is pleased to announce that the Art Institute of Chicago has acquired "Esther Before Ahasuerus" by Frans Francken II, presented by Salomon Lilian at TEFAF Maastricht 2024. Rediscovered in 2006, the painting illuminates the fine, colorful multi-figure compositions and sumptuous textiles of Frans Francken II’s early maturity in Antwerp, while also depicting a female protagonist as a moral exemplar. Signed and dated 1622, the painting depicts Queen Esther before the Persian king Ahasuerus, risking her life to plead for mercy on behalf of her people. Her courage and resolve lie at the heart of the Book of Esther and the feast of Purim. The acquisition marks the first Flemish early modern painting to be acquired by the Art Institute of Chicago in nearly fifteen years and is on view in the gallery of seventeenth-century Flemish painting. Frans Francken II Detail of "Esther Before Ahasuerus” 1622 Oil on panel Courtesy of The Art Institute of Chicago, "In memory of a young boy who delighted in the story of Esther and of all those he loved and who love him." Global Lead Partner: AXA XL #TEFAF #TEFAFMaastricht