Perzische Sibille before 1608

Curator: Well hello there. Isn't she striking? This engraving, “Perzische Sibille” – or Persian Sibyl – was made before 1608 by Christoffel van Sichem I and now hangs in the Rijksmuseum. Editor: It's incredibly detailed. And the Sibyl looks so… thoughtful. There's almost a sense of melancholy, a pensiveness. How do you read this print? Curator: Melancholy, yes, that’s one way to see it! For me, her posture, and especially that vacant look – coupled with the horn and regal headpiece – whispers of the burden of prophecy, the weight of seeing what others cannot, the burden of being special. But tell me, do you think van Sichem captures an authentic representation or are they playing into an established set of symbols? Editor: I’m inclined to say that the symbolic is primary here. All these carefully included details that convey what’s important for a person of authority. The horn looks less functional than ceremonial to me. It’s intriguing. Curator: Exactly! And in that “ceremonial” nature we find a mirror reflecting societal expectations. Van Sichem may have wanted to depict the cultural meaning of prophecy at this moment, instead of capturing her inner life. Editor: So interesting how this piece sparks conversation around these questions! Curator: Right! These works encourage us to actively look and wonder and bring our own questions into play. Always enriching the exchange with what we bring to the viewing experience.