Five prudent and five fatuous virgins Godfried Schalcken (1643-1706)

The composition presents a nocturnal scene populated by groups of women within a densely wooded area. A pervasive darkness dominates the visual field, punctuated solely by the flickering light emanating from handheld lamps held by several figures. The illumination is uneven, creating stark contrasts between areas bathed in warm yellow and those shrouded in deep shadow.
On the left side of the canvas, five women are clustered together. Their garments, rendered in flowing fabrics, suggest a degree of refinement, while their expressions appear somewhat detached or preoccupied. They hold their lamps aloft, directing light towards each other, creating an intimate circle within the larger darkness. The artist has carefully arranged them to create a sense of movement and interaction, though their gazes are not consistently directed, contributing to a feeling of quiet introspection rather than overt engagement.
To the right, another group of five women is visible. Their attire appears less elaborate, and they seem more agitated or distressed. One woman holds her lamp low, casting shadows across her face, while others appear to be looking off into the distance with expressions of concern or apprehension. A fallen object – possibly a container – lies on the ground near this group, further suggesting a sense of disarray or misfortune.
The background is indistinct, hinting at an expansive forest extending beyond the immediate foreground. The suggestion of moonlight filtering through the trees adds to the atmospheric quality of the scene, reinforcing the feeling of isolation and uncertainty. The limited color palette – primarily consisting of warm yellows, browns, and muted greens – contributes to a somber and contemplative mood.
Subtextually, the painting seems to explore themes of preparedness versus complacency, wisdom versus folly. The distinct separation between the two groups of women, coupled with their contrasting behaviors and expressions, implies a moral distinction. The lamps themselves can be interpreted as symbols of guidance or enlightenment, suggesting that some are actively seeking knowledge while others remain in darkness. The fallen object among the second group might represent lost opportunities or a failure to anticipate adversity. Overall, the work conveys a sense of foreboding and invites reflection on the consequences of choices made in times of uncertainty.