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This is a drawing of a medieval allegorical scene. The image shows a group of figures within a walled enclosure, looking upwards toward an emblem with a seated figure holding symbols of authority. Below the platform, there are skeletal figures and others with disturbing features. The composition includes detailed architecture and flowing garments, with expressive postures and gestures. The entire scene is etched with fine lines, creating an intricate visual narrative.
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This is a drawing of a medieval allegorical scene. The image shows a group of figures within a walled enclosure, looking upwards toward an emblem with a seated figure holding symbols of authority. Below the platform, there are skeletal figures and others with disturbing features. The composition includes detailed architecture and flowing garments, with expressive postures and gestures. The entire scene is etched with fine lines, creating an intricate visual narrative.

National Gallery of Art · Drawing

Allegory of the Life of a Scholar in a Rich Household [fol. 3 verso / 4 recto]

French 16th Century

Date
c. 1512/1515
Medium
pen and brown ink on laid paper
Dimensions
overall: 16.4 x 21.6 cm (6 7/16 x 8 1/2 in.)
Classification
Drawing
Accession number
2006.11.28
Credit line
Woodner Collection, Gift of Andrea Woodner
Time span
1501 to 1550
Department
CG-E
Original NGA record Wikidata

Portfolio and series

Series
Speculum principis (Mirror for Princes)

Subjects and terms

  • French
  • Death
  • Costume
  • Building
  • Figures
  • Monster
Provenance

(Sale, London, Sotheby's, 13 July 1937, lot 64); (sale, London, Sotheby's, 15-17 November 1937, lot 546); (sale, London, Maggs Bros., Ltd., catalogue 709, 1941, no. 30); (purchased by William H. Schab Gallery via Paul Graupe); purchased by Ian Woodner, New York, by 1973; by inheritance to his daughters, Andrea and Dian Woodner, New York, 1990.

NGA object ID 86058. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.