The Wise Virgins Carrying Their Lamps

Abraham Bosse

Associated Names
Abraham Bosse

Artist, French, 1602 - 1676

This is a drawing of a group of seven women holding lamps, approaching a figure in robes with outstretched arms. The setting is an architectural interior with large columns and stone carvings in the background. The scene is illuminated by the glowing figure, creating a contrast between light and shadow. The intricate line work and shading define the figures' expressions, capturing a moment of interaction. The drawing is accompanied by poetic text beneath the image.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    plate: 25.4 x 32.5 cm (10 x 12 13/16 in.)
    sheet: 28.7 x 36.9 cm (11 5/16 x 14 1/2 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2003.127.1.3

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Le Blanc, no. 87

  • Series Title

    The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins (plate 3)

Associated Artworks

See all 7 artworks
The image shows five women indoors, depicted from their upper bodies upwards. Two women on the left are conversing; one gestures while sitting to the left of another holding a book. On the right, three women are shown, engaged in reading or discussion, with books in hand or laps. They all have centrally parted, swept back hair, wear dresses with wide collars and long sleeves, typical of an earlier period. Two large framed paintings are on the walls, depicting allegorical or religious scenes. A table in the center has an open book on a stand, flanked by candles and a cross. The room has high ceilings and large windows showing a building and landscape view.

The Wise Virgins at Prayer

Abraham Bosse

1602

This is a photograph of a book cover. The cover is black with a beige rectangular panel in the center which contains gold embossed text. On the beige panel, the text reads "ABRAHAM BOSSE — LES VIERGES FOLLES ET LES VIERGES SAGES." The overall design is simple and elegant, with the black surface exhibiting a subtle textured pattern, and a strip of lighter material running along the left edge of the cover. The gold embossed text adds a touch of sophistication to the cover.

The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins

Abraham Bosse

1602

The image shows five women sitting in a semi-circle around a fireplace. They have distinct facial features and varied hairstyles, and wear formal dresses. There is a table with lit candles, and some of the women appear to be holding books or documents. In the background, there is an ornate fireplace and a window with closed shutters showing a crescent moon. The room is elegantly decorated with wood paneling and textile wall hangings.

The Wise Virgins before the Fire

Abraham Bosse

1602

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Frits Rumpf (Lugt 2161). (Christopher Mendez, London); purchased 2003 by NGA.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1854

  • Le Blanc, Charles. _Manuel de l'amateur d'estampes, contenant le dictionnaire des graveurs de toutes les nations, dans lequel sont decrites les estampes rares, precieuses et interessantes avec l'indication de leurs differents etats et des prix auxquels

Wikidata ID

Q76334921

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