The Old Testament (or Synagogue), from the series of Sibyls 1525 - 1535

Lucas van Leyden’s “The Old Testament (or Synagogue)” from his series of Sibyls, is a 16th-century engraving depicting a woman, blindfolded and crowned, holding the tablets of the Ten Commandments. This artwork is part of a larger series representing prophetic figures, emphasizing the relevance of the Old Testament in relation to Christian faith. A powerful sense of drama is created through the use of deep shadows and bold lines, characteristic of the Northern Renaissance style. This print, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to van Leyden’s mastery of the engraving medium and his ability to convey complex theological concepts through art.