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Study for "The Wise and Foolish Virgins"

Frederic, Lord Leighton

1863

chalk

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Romanticism Late 19th Century

Dominant colour

Study for "The Wise and Foolish Virgins" is a 1863 chalk by Frederic, Lord Leighton, a Romanticism work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Frederic, Lord Leighton
When & what style?: 1863 · Romanticism
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This sketch shows two figures draped in long robes, sitting side by side. One figure leans forward slightly, while the other sits upright. The lines are loose and quick, with shading that suggests fabric folds and movement. The paper has a faint blue tint, and the artist used white highlights to catch light on the clothing. The sketch was made as a practice drawing for a larger work about waiting. The artist focused on the robes and posture, not faces or details. Next, look up Romanticism to see how this style used emotion and storytelling in art.