Jael and Cisera? [verso]

c. 1524/1527

Parmigianino

Associated Names
Parmigianino

Artist, Parmese, 1503 - 1540

This is a drawing of two overlapping figures with dynamic outlines. The image features swirling lines and forms sketched in red chalk. A central figure with noticeable musculature appears to be interacting with a partially reclined form. The space is filled with loose, gestural lines suggesting fluid motion and chaotic energy. There is no clear background, giving the drawing a sense of study or exploration of form and movement. The emphasis is on the energy conveyed through dynamic poses and expressive line work.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    red chalk on thin laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Pepita Milmore Memorial Fund

  • Dimensions

    overall: 19.4 x 13.8 cm (7 5/8 x 5 7/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1989.70.1.b

Associated Artworks

The image shows sinuous figures among clouds. The drawing features interwoven, muscular figures with an angelic or divine quality, set against a backdrop of flowing clouds. The artwork uses a monochrome palette to highlight the fluidity of the clouds and the contorted poses of the figures, creating a sense of movement and weightlessness. In the upper half of the composition, another figure appears with a radiant presence and light emanating from behind it, suggesting dominance or divinity. The artwork's delicate linework forms curls and swirls, conveying motion and energy throughout the composition.

The Fall of the Rebel Angels [recto]

Parmigianino

1524


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Robert and Bettina Suida Manning; (Yvonne Tan Bunzl, London); NGA purchase in 1974.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1967

  • 15th & 16th Century European Drawings, American Federation of Arts, 1967-1968, no., 46 (as Annibale di Francesco Bertoia)(circulating exhibition).

Wikidata ID

Q64618811

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