Head of Bearded Man (recto); Head of a Girl (verso) 1503 - 1540

This drawing by Girolamo Mazzola Bedoli, also known as Parmigianino, depicts a detailed study of a bearded man's head in profile. The artist's use of delicate lines and shading creates a sense of volume and life in the subject. This work, dating from between 1503 and 1540, is a fine example of Parmigianino's masterful draughtsmanship and his keen interest in human anatomy. The drawing is a study for a larger work, likely a painting or sculpture. It is currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.