The Parable of the Sower

Currently not on view

The Parable of the Sower

1598

Pieter Bast (Flemish, c. 1570–1605) Published by Claes Jansz. Visscher (Dutch, 1586/87–1652)

In this parable a sower drops seed in three places where it does not grow, and in one place where it does. The seed sown along a path is gathered by Satan, the seed sown on rocky ground does not take root, and the seed sown among thorns is choked. When spread on fertile ground, however, the seed thrives. Jesus explains that the seed is the word of God, and the path, rocky ground, and thorns are people who hear the word but cannot live by it. The fertile ground represents those who are receptive to God’s teachings.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Titles:

The Parable of the Sower
From a series of six landscapes with Biblical Scenes

Date:

1598

Artists:

Pieter Bast (Flemish, c. 1570–1605) Published by Claes Jansz. Visscher (Dutch, 1586/87–1652)

Medium:

Engraving

Dimensions:

Sheet: 4 3/4 x 6 15/16 inches (12.1 x 17.6 cm)

Classification:

Prints

Credit Line:

The Muriel and Philip Berman Gift, acquired from the John S. Phillips bequest of 1876 to the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, with funds contributed by Muriel and Philip Berman, gifts (by exchange) of Lisa Norris Elkins, Bryant W. Langston, Samuel S. White 3rd and Vera White, with additional funds contributed by John Howard McFadden, Jr., Thomas Skelton Harrison, and the Philip H. and A.S.W. Rosenbach Foundation, 1985

Accession Number:

1985-52-29197

Geography:

Made in Southern Netherlands (modern Belgium), Europe Published in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Europe

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.

Currently not on view