Sibyl

Maker Antonio Schiassi (Italian, 1722 - 1777)

Collections

ClassificationsSCULPTURE

Date1768

Mediumterracotta

Dimensions17 x 19 1/2 x 7 in. (43.2 x 49.5 x 17.8 cm.)

DescriptionThis sculpture portrays an elegantly dressed Sibyl with her books.

Credit LineThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. Purchased with funds from the Art Collectors' Council and the Browning Memorial Art Fund in honor of Margery and Maurice Katz

Status

On view

Label TextSibyls were ancient priestesses who guarded writings that foretold the future. In this terracotta sculpture, the Sibyl is shown gracefully posed among her books. The sculpture was conceived as a pair with the biblical Prophet, installed opposite. The prominent display of books from which the figures dispense their oracular wisdom suggests these terracottas may have been models for larger sculptures intended to ornament the library of a learned patron.

Object number2009.9.1