A Foolish Virgin 1475 - 1491

Editor: We’re looking at Martin Schongauer's engraving, "A Foolish Virgin," made somewhere between 1475 and 1491. I find her gaze sort of unsettling – is she naive, or something else entirely? What do you make of this piece? Curator: Well, her eyes certainly do hold a peculiar story, don't they? Schongauer, a master of the Northern Renaissance, wasn't just making pretty pictures. He was weaving visual sermons. This "foolish virgin" is likely pulled from the Parable of the Ten Virgins in the Gospel of Matthew. Think of her as a symbol – maybe of unpreparedness, spiritual sloth, or the dangers of vanity, perhaps reflected in the elaborate headwear? What is it that draws you to the eyes? Editor: I guess it’s the contrast – her clothing and jewelry seem so extravagant, almost performative. But her eyes lack a certain…spark? Curator: Exactly! There’s a tension there, isn’t there? The external show clashes with an internal emptiness. It is a gentle critique. The level of detail he achieves with engraving is quite stunning when you consider the era. Note the textures! How he conveys form with just line…pure magic, isn't it? Do you see that tiny signature? A mark of pride, and rightly so. Editor: It's incredible how much detail he packed into the engraving. I see what you mean about that contrast now; her vacant gaze versus all the fine lines in her clothing. Curator: Yes, it all adds to a beautiful, yet haunting meditation. Remember: it's a mirror reflecting society back to itself, daring you to decide on who to blame in such a reflection. Editor: Wow, I definitely have a lot to think about. Thank you! Curator: My pleasure! Let her foolishness ignite in you a fire to examine every intention and perception that crosses your path.