Two Female Allegorical Figures (Abundance and Peace?)
Drawing on paper; oval format • Circle of Bartholomeus Spranger; possibly Northern Mannerist or Central European school (Prague or Haarlem)
Style & Movement
International Mannerism / Northern Mannerism (Prague School influence)
Medium & Technique
Pen and brown ink, brown wash, over black chalk, heightened with white gouache (white lead) in tight parallel hatching and cross-hatching
Creation Period
Late 16th to early 17th century (circa 1590–1620)
Dimensions & Format
Small-scale cabinet piece; oval tondo format, estimated between 15cm and 25cm in width
Subject Description
Two classically draped female figures in an oval composition. The left figure holds a large cornucopia filled with fruit, typically symbolizing Abundance or Ceres. The figures exhibit the exaggerated musculature, elongated limbs, and complex 'figura serpentinata' characteristic of Mannerism. The heavy white heightening creates a metallic, high-relief effect.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; shows signs of age-related wear, oxidation, and peripheral damage
Estimated Market Value
USD 3,000 - 6,000
Auction Estimate
USD 2,500 - 4,500
Provenance History
Unknown; stylistic traits suggest it likely originated from a 16th-century princely collection or a scholarly 'Kunstkammer' in Northern Europe before entering the private market
Art Historical Significance
A significant example of the dissemination of the 'Sprangeresque' style throughout Europe. While more muscular than Spranger's own refined brushwork, the piece captures the Rudolfine obsession with mythological allegory and virtuosic draftsmanship, illustrating the transition from late Mannerism toward the early Baroque.
Notable Features
Heavy use of white hatched heightening which gives the figures a sculptural, almost engraved quality. The oval format suggests it may have been a design for a metalwork plaque, plate, or a small ceiling inset.
Condition Issues
Visible foxing and staining in the background paper. Minor nicks/losses along the paper edge at the top and bottom. Oxidation of the white lead heightening (common for this period) and general yellowing of the support paper.
Conservation Recommendations
Requires stabilization by a paper conservator. Maintain in a climate-controlled environment with UV-filtered glass. Avoid bright light to prevent further fading of the ink and yellowing of the paper.
Collector Notes
Spranger derived but too muscular and heavy use of white hatched heightening