Bust Of an Old Woman in Profile to Right

Art Historical Context

Rosso Fiorentino (1494–1540), a pioneering voice of Italian Mannerism, created this intimate drawing during a period when artists were pushing beyond the balanced harmony of the High Renaissance. Known for his elongated forms and emotional intensity, Rosso often explored expressive character studies that captured the individuality of his subjects with striking directness. Executed in black chalk heightened with white on beige paper, the drawing uses a silhouetted figure against an opaque gray wash to emphasize the elderly woman’s profile. This technique lends a sculptural quality to the work, allowing light and shadow to model the wrinkles and contours of her face with remarkable sensitivity. The modest scale—roughly 8 by 5½ inches—suggests it may have served as a preparatory study or an independent exploration of human character. Such profile portraits recall classical cameos and Renaissance medals, yet Rosso’s sensitive handling of age and expression gives the figure a quiet dignity. Acquired by the Metropolitan Museum in 1962, the drawing offers visitors a rare glimpse into the working methods of one of the era’s most inventive draftsmen.

About the Artist

Rosso Fiorentino · 1494–1540

Italian, Florence 1494–1540 Fontainebleau