The Persian 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 an architectural and sculptural composition. The artwork features a complex arrangement of figures and architectural elements, creating a symmetrical composition. Centered at the top is a seated, draped figure holding an open book, flanked by smaller nudes. The central figure is labeled "PERSICHA." Surrounding this central motif are additional figures in niches and archways, with nude figures posed in various positions. The drawing features intricate detailing and a focus on linework.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    plate: 56 x 41.6 cm (22 1/16 x 16 3/8 in.)
    sheet: 60.2 x 44.1 cm (23 11/16 x 17 3/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1985.57.6

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Boorsch/Lewis 1985, no. 47, State ii/iii

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: PERSICHA; Ghisi's monogram and false date, lower left in plate below seated figure: .G.MF.1540 / Nic.o uan aelst for. / Romae; lower left verso in graphite: 7074

Watermarks

present but not identified

Wikidata ID

Q74069591

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