De forstandige jomfruer samlet i et landskab, i baggrunden Johannes Døberen, der prædiker 1606

Jan Saenredam created this engraving, titled *The Wise Virgins Assembled in a Landscape, with John the Baptist Preaching in the Background,* sometime around the turn of the 17th century. Saenredam lived during a time of religious reformation and political upheaval in the Netherlands, which undoubtedly influenced his choice of subject matter. The engraving depicts a scene from the biblical parable of the ten virgins. The wise virgins, prepared for the bridegroom's arrival, are contrasted against the foolish ones. We see them gathered, some reading and others spinning yarn, embodying the virtues of diligence and preparedness. In the background, John the Baptist preaches, suggesting a call to spiritual awakening. The image would have been perceived through the lens of gendered expectations of the time, where women were often judged on their piety and domestic skills. Yet, there's a quiet strength in the women's self-possession. Saenredam invites us to reflect on our own readiness, both spiritual and practical, in a world filled with uncertainty. The scene encourages contemplation, reminding us of the importance of wisdom and vigilance in our own lives.