A large number of studies of head in profile by Leonardo are a testament of his profound interest in physiognomy and the expressive character of the human face in all of its infinite variety. In this study, Leonardo juxtaposes a bald, toothless old man with a virile, curly haired youth.

The relationship between the figures is difficult to establish, but the profile view of both figures is likely to have been inspired by antique coins or cameos, which were avidly collected during the Renaissance period, and with which Leonardo is likely to have been familiar.