Inleiding op de twaalf Sibillen 1653 - 1654

This elaborate capital "D" is an illuminated initial from *Inleiding op de twaalf Sibillen*, a book by Jan Philipsz Schabaelje, a Dutch publisher and engraver, who was active in the early 17th century. The capital letter introduces a section of text about the Sibyls, prophetesses who were believed to have predicted the future. The intricate design of the initial "D" reflects the visual style of the time period, which is characterized by its decorative and ornamental character. The work is a prime example of Dutch typography and book art from the 17th century. The book and its illuminations are an important part of the visual history of the Rijksmuseum's collection.