The Prophet Elijah, from Prophets and Sibyls 1480 - 1490

This engraving of The Prophet Elijah comes from a series of Prophets and Sibyls, made in Florence, Italy, around 1480-1500 by Francesco Rosselli. Here, Elijah is presented as a figure of authority and wisdom. Rosselli has depicted Elijah in a style that reflects the cultural and religious values of Renaissance Italy. The flowing robes and the classical rendering of his face are reminiscent of the era’s interest in classical antiquity, yet also emphasizes the divine status of the prophet. The text inscribed below the image underscores the Christian understanding of Old Testament prophets as foretelling the coming of Christ. "I come certainly to declare how the Lord of the world must be born and this must not fail." Consider how Rosselli, though working within a Christian framework, engages with Jewish history and identity. How does the artist balance respect for the source material with the prevailing cultural and religious norms of his time? In his depiction of Elijah, Rosselli invites us to consider the complexities of faith, power, and representation in the Renaissance era.