Any art scholars who've studied the Sistine Chapel?

Question

http://mv.vatican.va/3_EN/pages/x-Schede/CSNs/CSNs_V_SibProf_12.html

Who/what do the two young children in the Delphic Sibly represent?

Answer 1

According to the art historian Estelle M. Hurll, the figures are most likely genii (the early Roman/latin term for angels or spirits, later to be known during the Renaissance as putti).

The Delphic Sibyl was a legendary figure who gave prophecies in the sacred precinct of Apollo at Delphi, located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. The scroll which she unrolls in her left hand is the scroll of her prophecy. Her depiction here by Michelangelo has often been interpreted as a prophecy as to the future of the chapel itself.

The two little figures holding a book, just behind her right shoulder, are probably genii, or spirits, symbolic of the sibyl's inspiration.

Answer 2

I did work in Europe and took Art History classes. We visited the Chapel after the restoration, and I think it does return it to Michalangelo's conception and colors. Look at his one non-fresco painting.

The figures are Putti. They were common in this time and were mostly decorative and used to balance compositions. See below reference.