Gelijkenis van de arbeiders in de wijngaard 1593

This engraving, *Gelijkenis van de arbeiders in de wijngaard,* was created by Wierix around the turn of the 17th century. The image illustrates the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard from the Gospel of Matthew. Wierix was working in Antwerp during a time of religious and political upheaval. His engravings often reflected the intense debates surrounding faith, labor, and social justice. Here, he translates a biblical story into a visual commentary on the economic and social hierarchies of his time. The vineyard becomes a stage upon which questions of fairness, divine grace, and earthly reward are explored. Look closely at the figures. Wierix has grouped them, illustrating different times of the day when they were hired. The expressions and gestures of the laborers convey a range of emotions, from hopeful anticipation to weary resignation. What does it mean to be valued, to be compensated, and to find dignity in one's labor? The Parable invites us to reflect on the intersection of faith, labor, and justice in our own lives. It challenges us to consider how we value both the work we do, and the people who do it.