Appelplukkers 1675

This engraving, titled "Appelplukkers," was made by Conrad Meyer in the 17th century. At first glance, it appears to be a simple pastoral scene, but it’s actually a complex allegory on aging, labor, and divine grace. The image presents a gendered division of labor. A woman, presumably the wife, gathers the apples, while the man, perhaps the husband, sits, seemingly more contemplative. It speaks to the social expectations placed on men and women, as well as the different roles assigned to them as they age. The German text framing the image speaks to the harvest of wisdom in old age. The image is overlaid with text that reflects the religious climate of the time, urging viewers to listen closely to the word of God. The apples, therefore, are not just a symbol of earthly labor, but also of spiritual nourishment. Meyer uses the familiar imagery of the harvest to communicate deeper theological truths. The piece acknowledges the difficulties inherent in aging, but it also suggests that there is a divine purpose to suffering.