Artwork

Tiburtine Sibyl and the Emperor Augustus

Tiburtine Sibyl and the Emperor Augustus, by Parmigianino, 1528
Tiburtine Sibyl and the Emperor Augustus, by Parmigianino, 1528

Tiburtine Sibyl and the Emperor Augustus is a print by the Renaissance artist Parmigianino. It dates from 1528 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Tiburtine Sibyl and the Emperor Augustus is a print depicting a legendary encounter between the Roman Emperor Augustus and the Tiburtine Sybil, interrupted by a vision of the Virgin and Child.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows Augustus seeking the Sybil's advice on apotheosis, when a divine vision appears, foreshadowing a new spiritual era and a ruler who would surpass Augustus.

Technique & Style

The print combines dramatic and intimate elements, with a blend of grand and personal details. The composition features a Roman emperor and the Sybil, with the Virgin and Child appearing in a golden-lit sky.

History & Provenance

The print was likely made by Antonio da Trento under Parmigianino's supervision. The Cleveland Museum of Art holds an example of the print, representing the second state, with added hatching to the attendant's cheek.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Parmigianino

Artist

Parmigianino

Girolamo Francesco Maria Mazzola (11 January 1503 – 24 August 1540), also known as Francesco Mazzola or, more commonly, as Parmigianino (UK: , US: , Italian: ; "the little one from Parma"), was an Italian Mannerist…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.