The Sibyl

Willem Drost's The Sibyl from around 1654 demonstrates this Rembrandt pupil's gift for combining his master's dramatic chiaroscuro with a distinctive classical refinement. The subject of the ancient prophetess allowed Drost to paint a contemplative, idealized female figure that transcends mere portraiture. Shortly after painting this work, Drost left Amsterdam for Venice, where the influence of Venetian painting further softened his style.

Drost's oil-on-canvas technique achieves a luminous quality in the flesh tones and rich draperies that sets his work apart from other Rembrandt pupils. The soft, atmospheric chiaroscuro and refined surface treatment suggest awareness of Venetian painting even before his Italian journey.