The Parable of the Banquet without Guests, from Das Plenarium 1517

"The Parable of the Banquet without Guests," a woodcut from Hans Schäufelein's "Das Plenarium" (1517), depicts a scene from the New Testament parable of the great banquet. An older man, possibly representing God, gestures towards a young man standing outside of a lavish banquet hall, symbolizing the rejection of God's invitation to salvation. The work exemplifies the Northern Renaissance style of woodcut printing, characterized by intricate details and vibrant colors. The use of vibrant colors and intricate details helps to convey the message of the parable, which is that God's invitation to salvation is open to all, but many choose to reject it. This woodcut, like many others in "Das Plenarium," aims to convey biblical teachings through visually engaging imagery.