Two Female Figures (Flora or Ceres and an Attendant)
Drawing on paper, circular tondo format • Circle of Jacques Bellange or manner of Parmigianino (Northern Mannerism)
Style & Movement
Mannerism / Late Renaissance
Medium & Technique
Pen and brown ink with brown wash and white heightenings on tinted paper
Creation Period
Late 16th Century (c. 1570-1590)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 15-20 cm diameter; Tondo (circular) format
Subject Description
Two allegorical female figures in a rhythmic composition. The figure on the left holds a large cornucopia overflowing with fruit or flowers, suggesting an allegory of Abundance, Flora, or Ceres. The figures exhibit the elongated proportions, small heads, and serpentine 'figura serpentinata' characteristic of the Mannerist aesthetic. The interaction is dramatic yet ethereal.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; shows signs of age-related degradation common for works on paper from this period.
Estimated Market Value
$4,000 - $7,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$3,000 - $5,000 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely from a private European collection or an old master drawing portfolio. No visible collector's marks on the recto.
Art Historical Significance
A fine example of late 16th-century Mannerism, demonstrating the influence of the School of Fontainebleau and Italian masters like Parmigianino across Europe. It reflects the era's fascination with artifice, elegance, and complex allegorical subjects.
Notable Features
Distinguished by the fluid 'calligraphic' line work and the mastery of the wash to create volume. The use of white heightening (biacca) provides a shimmering, sculptural quality to the musculature and drapery.
Condition Issues
Visible foxing (small brown spots), minor edge wear, handling creases, and possible light fading of the white lead highlights which may have oxidized.
Conservation Recommendations
Should be mounted using acid-free materials with a UV-protective museum glass. Climate-controlled environment (50% RH) is essential to prevent further foxing or paper brittleness.