The two classic characters are from the Italian commedia dell'arte: an improvisational form of theater that emerged in Northern Italy during the 16th century and flourished throughout Europe until the 18th century, known for it's masked, stock characters.
Pierrot (to the right) is typically portrayed as a sad, lovesick clown who yearns for Columbine (to the right).
"The two figures came to me as gifts in two separate occurrences. Now, together as one through paint."