The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins

About this work

This engraving shows a crowded scene split into two worlds. At the top, ten naked figures stand in a grand, empty church with tall arches, holding torches. Below, a group of people in medieval clothes work or argue outside—some spin wool, others fight or beg. The sky between them is full of swirling clouds with Latin words like *"Et ego"* and *"Non novit nos."* The artist packed tiny details into every corner, like the spinning wheel or the tiny figures hiding in the shadows. The contrast between the heavenly figures above and the messy human activity below makes the scene feel like a warning. Next, check out how engraving works to see how artists like this carved intricate scenes into metal.