The Sibyl

Description

A half-length depiction of a Sibyl — a prophetic figure from classical antiquity — holding a book. The subject reflects Drost's engagement with classical themes alongside his biblical works.

Analysis

Although once a well-known Rembrandt, the Met now states: "Drost's authorship of this picture has been supported by most specialists since 1923, and may be considered as beyond reasonable doubt." The female type, the drawing of facial features, and the painterly execution of the costume are characteristic of Drost. The subject appears to have been inspired by Domenichino's Cumaean Sibyl (1616–17, Galleria Borghese, Rome). Conservation in 1995 revealed that the composition was painted over another one — the canvas was turned upside down and a new priming was applied. Theodore M. Davis Collection, Bequest of Theodore M. Davis, 1915 (30.95.268).

Historical Context

Dated c. 1654, this painting bears the influence of Italian art even though Drost had likely not yet traveled to Italy — the Sibyl subject was inspired by Domenichino's frescoes, known through prints circulating in Amsterdam. The canvas reuse discovered in 1995 conservation — the painting was turned upside down and reprimed — is a rare insight into Drost's working methods. This was a period when Rembrandt was experiencing severe financial strain, and the Met notes the painting was once considered a major Rembrandt before Drost's authorship was recognized in 1923.