Raphael’s Sibyls fresco restored in Rome

Continuing the commemoration of the Italian Renaissance artist Raphael on the 5ooth anniversary of his death, Rome has announced further restoration to the artist’s “The Sibyls” fresco in the Church of Santa Maria della Pace. The fresco dates to approximately 1515 and is noted for its luscious use of Renaissance details and its parallels to early sketches of Michelangelo.

Displayed in the fresco around a central arch are four sibyls ,Cumaean, Persian, Phrygian, and Tiburtine, who are flanked angels and receiving news of Christ’s resurrection. Originally, Raphael was commissioned to paint this work for the Sienese banker Agostino Chigi.

The current restoration is by Antonio Forcellino, who began in February and continued throughout Italy’s covid-19 lockdown. These efforts encompass a part of Italy’s year-long celebration of Raphael, whose work is the subject of a major exhibition at the Scuderie del Quirinale in Rome.

 

– Jori Bonadurer