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Artwork

Studies for "The Wise and Foolish Virgins" [recto]

William Blake, Sir Richmond , 1880

Studies for "The Wise and Foolish Virgins" [recto], by William Blake, Sir Richmond, chalk, 1880
Studies for "The Wise and Foolish Virgins" [recto], by William Blake, Sir Richmond, chalk, 1880

Studies for "The Wise and Foolish Virgins" [recto] is a chalk drawing by the Impressionist artist William Blake, Sir Richmond. It dates from 1880 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. The drawing titled Studies for “The Wise and Foolish Virgins” (recto) is a red‑chalk counterproof executed on laid paper.

Inscription
Inscribed:by later hand, upper right verso in graphite: [??5760]

About this work

Overview

The drawing titled Studies for “The Wise and Foolish Virgins” (recto) is a red‑chalk counterproof executed on laid paper. It was produced in 1880 by Sir William Blake Richmond, a British painter and decorative artist known for his work in the late‑Victorian period.

Technique & Style

The work employs a red chalk counterproof, a method in which a chalk drawing is transferred to paper by pressing the original onto a damp surface, creating a reversed, tonal image. Laid paper, with its characteristic ribbed texture, provides a subtle grounding for the delicate lines and shading characteristic of Richmond’s preparatory studies.

Context

The study relates to the biblical parable of the wise and foolish virgins, a subject often depicted in religious art to illustrate themes of preparedness and spiritual vigilance. Richmond’s preparatory sketches suggest an intention to develop a larger composition, likely for a mural or stained‑glass commission, reflecting the era’s interest in integrating narrative art with architectural decoration.

Studies for "The Wise and Foolish Virgins" [recto]
Studies for "The Wise and Foolish Virgins" [recto], William Blake, Sir Richmond

Artist & collection

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of National Gallery of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Studies for "The Wise and Foolish Virgins" [recto]?

Studies for "The Wise and Foolish Virgins" [recto] was painted by William Blake, Sir Richmond in 1880.

Where can I see Studies for "The Wise and Foolish Virgins" [recto]?

Studies for "The Wise and Foolish Virgins" [recto] is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Studies for "The Wise and Foolish Virgins" [recto]?

Studies for "The Wise and Foolish Virgins" [recto] is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Studies for "The Wise and Foolish Virgins" [recto]?

Museum-quality prints of Studies for "The Wise and Foolish Virgins" [recto] are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.