Frustra pater nauem dabit

Hieronymus Wierix

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a group of figures around a boat in a pastoral setting. The scene depicts several figures engaged in activity centered around a large wooden barrel or boat. One figure is hammering or working on the top of the boat, surrounded by four other figures who appear to be assisting or participating in the activity. Behind the group is a house with a thatched roof, set amidst a rural landscape with a bare tree and another tree with leaves in the foreground. The scene exudes a sense of industriousness and craftsmanship in a serene, pastoral environment. Below the scene, there is a piece of text in Latin.