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The Wise and Foolish Virgins
William Etty·c. 1805
Historical Context
The Wise and Foolish Virgins, painted around 1805 and now at the University of Dundee Fine Art Collections, illustrates the parable from Matthew 25 — one of the most frequently depicted New Testament parables in European art. The subject allowed Etty to paint multiple female figures in contrasting attitudes of preparedness and negligence. The moral lesson — emphasizing spiritual readiness — provided a religious framework for Etty's characteristic figure painting. The University of Dundee preserves this work within its fine art collection.
Technical Analysis
The devotional work is executed with sensuous flesh painting, reflecting William Etty's engagement with the demands of religious painting. The composition balances narrative clarity with spiritual atmosphere, using robust modeling to heighten the sacred drama.
Look Closer
- ◆Notice the parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins from Matthew 25 — allowing Etty to paint multiple female figures in contrasting attitudes of preparedness and neglect.
- ◆Look at the sensuous flesh painting balancing narrative clarity with spiritual atmosphere.
- ◆Observe this University of Dundee painting illustrating one of the most frequently depicted New Testament parables.
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