1562
ink
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins is a 1562 ink by Philip Galle, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This print is packed with tiny, busy scenes. At the top, five robed figures stand under arches, while two angels float above clouds holding scrolls with Latin words. Below, people work—some spin wool, others cook or play instruments. A man in the center holds a lantern, and another struggles with a heavy door. The Latin text at the bottom reads like a warning: *"Give us oil for our lamps, for they are going out."* This scene comes from a Bible story about waiting for a bridegroom’s arrival. Next, check out how this was made using engraving.
Philip (or Philips) Galle (1537 – March 1612) was a Dutch publisher, best known for publishing old master prints, which he also produced as designer and engraver. He is especially known for his reproductive engravings of paintings.
See the richer artist pageYour cart is empty
Explore artworks →
