Labor and Diligence Enjoying their Simple Meal

Philip Galle after Maerten van Heemskerck

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a banquet scene with allegorical figures. Various figures are depicted around a table, each labeled with symbolic names such as Labor and Diligentia. An angelic figure hovers above the table, presenting a laurel wreath and other symbolic items. The surroundings feature draped curtains, classical architecture with columns, and mountains in the background. Each figure holds objects such as plates, a jug, or an hourglass, contributing to the scene's symbolic narrative. The composition suggests themes of virtue, diligence, and moderation.