Italian Artist, The Delphic Sibyl and the Cumaean Sibyl, 1670, Oil on Canvases, Framed, Set of 2

Rare pair of Italian paintings from the second half of the 17th century. Oil on canvas artworks depicting two splendid female figures recognizable thanks to the inscriptions at the bottom (see photo), the Delphic Sibyl, linked to the oracle of Apollo at Delphi and the Cumaean Sibyl, prophetess of the Campanian area. Both are presented half-length with an open book on their lap, a typical iconographic attribute of the Sibyls and symbol of their prophetic role. The pose is graceful and the complexion pearly, while the gaze turns in opposite directions, one contemplative and the other inspired. Paintings of notable pictorial quality, in particular the rendering of the drapery should be highlighted, articulated in large areas of color and rich in transparencies. The use of dark backgrounds, even if opened by glimpses of light from the landscape, make the figures even more alive and the chromatic palette more vivid. The paintings have two small wooden sticks, with some signs of aging. Paintings already restored with relining, replacement of the frame and recoloring in small spots. Overall in good state of conservation. Interior size H 131.5 x W 99.5 cm.