Arbeid als de taak van de derde stand 1563 - 1570

This print, "Arbeid als de taak van de derde stand," was made by Philips Galle in the late 16th century. It's an engraving, meaning the image was incised into a metal plate, inked, and then printed onto paper. Notice how the crisp lines give the scene a sense of industrious activity. Galle is showing us a landscape bustling with labor. We see planting, plowing, digging, and harvesting – all the tasks associated with the "third estate," the commoners. The amount of work involved in the production process is remarkable, highlighting the effort that goes into sustaining society. This print isn't just a neutral observation. It's loaded with social commentary. By emphasizing the labor of the third estate, Galle is implicitly acknowledging their vital role in society. Yet, the inscription suggests that neither kings nor clergy relieve this toil. This artwork invites us to consider the relationship between labor, social class, and the distribution of resources. It reminds us that even seemingly simple images can carry complex ideas about work and society.