18th century Italian old master pencil drawing on paper of a study sketch depicting a central figure preaching from a book, surrounded by three figures keenly listening. In the foreground on the far right is an allegorical figure wearing a laurel leaf crown, holding an open book with a cherub or putti standing beside them. Possibly a rendering of the Allegory of the Old and New Dispensations, with the four Evangelists of the New Dispensation and king-priest Melchizedek holding a tablet representing the Old Law or Old Dispensation. Inscribed illegibly and "18th Century Bolognese" in pencil along the verso. Mounted on backing paper. Provenance: Private collection, Minnesota. Sight; height: 8 3/4 in x width: 10 in. Matting; height: 14 1/4 in x width: 19 1/4 in.

Foxing along the backing paper and some bore marks. Please contact us for a detailed condition report. Please note that the lack of a condition statement does not imply perfect condition. Email condition@revereauctions.com with any condition questions.