H. Antonius geeft zijn loon aan de armen 1598

This print, made by Antonio Tempesta around the turn of the 17th century, shows Saint Anthony giving his wages to the poor. The image is achieved through engraving, where the artist uses a tool called a burin to carve lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. This technique, though precise, is labor-intensive, mirroring the very theme of labor and charity depicted. The scene is rich with detail, from the bulging chests overflowing with coins to the humble pots and pans, likely representing the saint's worldly possessions. Notice how Tempesta uses the crisp lines of the engraving to differentiate textures and surfaces, highlighting the contrast between the rich fabrics of the donors and the ragged clothes of the recipients. The act of distributing wealth is further emphasized by the material process of production; the painstaking engraving work, a form of labor in itself, translates into an image celebrating the redistribution of labor's rewards. This piece reminds us that art, like charity, involves a transfer of resources, both material and emotional.