Gelijkenis van de ontrouwe wijngaardknechten en de gast zonder bruiloftskleed 1791

Simon Fokke made this print in the Netherlands in the 18th century. It illustrates two parables from the Gospel of Matthew, offering commentary on social and religious hierarchies of the time. At the top, we see the parable of the wicked tenants, who violently reject the landowner's servants. Below, the parable of the wedding banquet shows a guest being punished for lacking proper attire. Fokke, working within the tradition of Dutch printmaking, uses these biblical scenes to reflect on contemporary social structures. The images create meaning through references to religious and social codes. The parables themselves critique abuses of power and the importance of adhering to social norms. The print invites viewers to reflect on their own roles within these structures. To truly understand this artwork, we need to consider the social and institutional context of 18th-century Netherlands, looking at religious life, class structures, and the role of printmaking in shaping public opinion. Research into religious texts and social histories would help us interpret Fokke's commentary on his time.