Secrets of the Sibyls – Sandro Botticelli, Filippino Lippi and artistic practice in Florence

The Christ Church Sibyls, two paintings each showing five sibyls (sibyl = female prophet) have intrigued scholars and visitors alike. They were created by two of the most ingenious artists of the Florentine Renaissance: Sandro Botticelli and Filippino Lippi. 

Visualising their artistic friendship and collaboration this exhibition will look underneath the painted surface and reveal the underdrawings and design processes of these fascinating panels. The show will also include some of the most outstanding Florentine drawings of the time, among them two newly-attributed works by Botticelli, figure studies by Filippino, but also sheets from rivalling workshops and their artists – like Verrocchio, Leonardo, Lorenzo di Credi and many more: a feast of Florentine Renaissance drawings, all taken from our own collection.