The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins (ca. 1799–1800)
Original title: The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins
kurzbeschreibung
Unlike related versions of Blake's parable, this watercolor of 1799–1800 singles out one woman dressed in white, her raised arm pointing to the right. Other women carrying lanterns surround her in shifting poses. Watercolor, pen and black ink, brush and wash over graphite are all brought into play.
Description
A woman in a long white gown holds the middle ground, her right arm extended to one side. Several female figures gather around her: some bear lanterns, others are in motion, still others seem distraught. A dark nighttime landscape with a tower closes off the distance. Grays dominate the coloring and give the sheet an uncanny mood.
Context
In the late 1790s Blake turned increasingly to biblical subjects, often for patrons such as Thomas Butts. The parable from the Gospel of Matthew (Mt 25:1–13) was a favorite theme in Christian art, a call to vigilance. Blake returned to the material more than once; this version is dated 1799–1800. It belongs to more than 80 watercolors made for Butts, which frequently read biblical scenes prophetically.
Impact
The gray palette and nighttime setting summon a somber, reflective mood suited to the parable. Expressive brushwork and restless figure poses lend the sheet a spiritual urgency that speaks to the viewer directly.
Technique
Blake laid watercolor, pen and black ink, and brush and wash over a graphite underdrawing. That let him work out both delicate lines and soft, atmospheric areas. The pairing of ink and watercolor marks his expressive, often visionary style.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)