British Galleries:
Sets of imported tapestries were used in palaces and great houses as luxurious wall hangings that also served to insulate against draughts. The contemporary dress of the figures underlined the relevance for the Tudor court of this Old Testament story where virtue overcomes evil. Queen Esther saved the Jewish people from destruction, against the advice of Haman, the King's evil minister. In the centre the Queen stands by her throne in anguish. In the foreground a messenger makes his way between groups of courtiers. [27/03/2003]