Ahasuerus Gives His Ring to Haman c. 1579

Editor: This is "Ahasuerus Gives His Ring to Haman" by Hans Collaert the Elder. It's a print, full of dramatic gestures. I'm curious about the ring—what significance does this act of giving have in this image? Curator: The ring, heavy with symbolic weight, signifies the transfer of royal authority. Consider its circular form – a potent emblem of continuity and unending power, now bestowed upon Haman. This symbolizes the king's trust, but also perhaps his abdication of responsibility. What cultural memory does this evoke for you? Editor: It makes me think about how objects can carry so much power, and how easily that power can be abused. Curator: Precisely. The image serves as a visual record, reminding us of the enduring human drama of power, trust, and betrayal.