Sibylla of Cumae, Flanders circa 1600

Around 1600
Flemish work
Oil on panel
The painting is a bust portrait of a young girl, inscription at the top of the painting SIB. CUMEA, "Sibylla of Cumae". She is the presiding priestess of the temple of Apollo at Cumae, whose prophecies were recorded in the Sibylline books. The prophetess is turned three-quarters, her golden hair falling over her shoulders. The luxurious garment with its deep colours and golden ornaments tells us about the period in which the portrait was painted. A headdress with similar gilding completes the image of the sibyl.
Our painting is typical of Antwerp works, on an oak panel. A 17th century frame completes the ensemble.