Apollo and the Cumean Sibyl 1744 - 1760

"Apollo and the Cumean Sibyl" is an etching by Marie Madeleine Igonet created between 1744 and 1760. The artwork depicts a scene from Greek mythology, where the god Apollo is shown granting the Sibyl of Cumae a long life, but punishing her for it by making her grow frail and weak. The etching, now located at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, provides a visual interpretation of the legend, highlighting the power dynamics between the god and the mortal. The composition features Apollo, standing with a drapery, and the Sibyl seated, with a winged cupid hovering above them. The landscape setting and the details in the scene, including the river flowing at the bottom, create a sense of depth and realism. The etching is a fine example of the Rococo style, characterized by its delicate lines, elegant figures, and decorative elements. It's a testament to Igonet's artistry in translating a mythological narrative into a captivating visual story.