The Delphic Sibyl

early 1570s

Giorgio Ghisi after Michelangelo

Associated Names
Giorgio Ghisi

Artist, Italian, 1520 - 1582

Michelangelo

Artist After, Florentine, 1475 - 1564

This is a drawing of architectural and sculptural elements with a central figure labeled "Delphica". The artwork features a seated draped figure at the center labeled "Delphica", positioned within an architectural arch. This figure is surrounded by smaller sculptural details of putti and mythical figures in niches, which decorate the cornices and spandrels of this grand architectural composition. The elaborate detailing includes symmetry and classical elements, such as pilasters and volutes. The shading technique adds depth and dimension to the figures and structural elements.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    plate: 55.5 x 43 cm (21 7/8 x 16 15/16 in.)
    sheet: 59.2 x 44.5 cm (23 5/16 x 17 1/2 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1985.57.3

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Boorsch/Lewis 1985, no. 49, State iii/iv

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Earl Spencer (Lugt Supp.2341a)

Associated Names

Bibliography

1802

  • Bartsch, Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna, 1802-1821: Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna: J.V. Degen, 1802-1821.

1985

  • Boorsch, Suzanne and Michal and R.E. Lewis. The Engravings of Giorgio Ghisi. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 1985.

Inscriptions

center in plate on tablet below sibyl's feet: DELPHICA; Ghisi's monogram and false date, lower right in plate below seated figure: .G.MF 1540 / Nico uan aelst / for. Romae.; lower left verso in graphite: 7074

Wikidata ID

Q74069582

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