A newly discovered study by Michelangelo is set to go under the hammer at Christie’s in New York on February 5, 2026. The red-chalk drawing, measuring just 5.1/4 x 4.5/8 inches, depicts the right foot of the Libyan Sibyl, one of the most iconic figures on the Sistine Chapel ceiling.
A GLIMPSE INTO THE ARTIST’S PROCESS
The study is believed to have been created around 1511-12, when Michelangelo was working on the second half of the Sistine Chapel ceiling. The drawing showcases the artist’s meticulous attention to detail and his ability to capture the subtleties of human anatomy. “Standing in front of this drawing, one can grasp the full power of Michelangelo’s creative force; we can almost feel the physical energy with which he rendered the form of the foot, pressing the red chalk vigorously onto the paper,” says Giada Damen, Specialist at Christie’s Old Master Drawings Department.
A RARE FIND
The study is one of only about 10 Michelangelo drawings known to be in private hands, and the first unrecorded study for the Sistine Chapel ceiling to come to auction. The drawing has been authenticated by experts at Christie’s and is expected to fetch between $1.5 million and $2 million.
PROVENANCE
The drawing has been in the ownership of a West Coast private collector since the 1700s and was previously unknown to scholars. It will be exhibited at Christie’s in Dubai from January 12-15, 2026, and at Christie’s in New York from January 29 to February 4, 2026, before going up for auction.
