Door werk de luyaerdy verjagen, / Is beter dan een aelmoes vragen, / Par le travail l'on prospère, / Et l'on é loigne la misère 1833 - 1856

This print, made by Glenisson and Van Genechten, presents a series of vignettes illustrating the virtues of labor over idleness. Each scene celebrates a different trade or form of work, from crafts to agriculture. The act of labor is, in itself, an ancient symbol, found across cultures. Consider the image of the wheel, prominently displayed here. It represents not only labor, but also the cyclical nature of life and the continuous effort required for survival and prosperity. In ancient mythologies, the wheel is often associated with fate and destiny, a reminder that our actions—our work—shape our path. Reflect on the psychological comfort these images of industriousness might have offered. By visually reinforcing the value of labor, these scenes touch on a deep-seated human desire for order and control over our existence. They offer a vision of stability and prosperity, achieved through diligence and effort. The enduring appeal of such imagery lies in its ability to tap into collective hopes and anxieties, reminding us of the timeless human struggle against poverty and the ever-present need for meaningful work.