Two Female Figures (Flora and Ceres?) with a Cornucopia
Drawing on paper, oval format • Circle of Hendrick Goltzius or Cornelis Cornelisz. van Haarlem (Haarlem School)
Style & Movement
Dutch Mannerism / Northern Mannerism
Medium & Technique
Pen and brown ink, wash, with white heightening on prepared or tinted paper
Creation Period
Late 16th to early 17th century (circa 1585-1610)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 15-20 cm in diameter; Oval tondo format
Subject Description
Two allegorical female figures in a dynamic, intertwined composition. One figure holds a large cornucopia overflowing with fruit and flowers, suggesting themes of abundance, fertility, or the seasons. The figures exhibit the exaggerated musculature and small heads characteristic of the Haarlem Mannerists.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; shows typical signs of age-related degradation
Estimated Market Value
$4,000 - $7,000
Auction Estimate
$3,000 - $5,000
Provenance History
Likely part of a Dutch or German collection of Old Master drawings; current owner mentions 'Haarlem', linking it to the Dutch artistic center of the period.
Art Historical Significance
A fine example of the Haarlem School's obsession with the human form and 'Spranger-esque' aesthetics. Such drawings served as preparatory studies or 'modelli' for prints, paintings, or decorative arts like silverware or stained glass.
Notable Features
The use of white heightening (biacca) to create dramatic light effects on the musculature; the oval tondo shape suggests it may have been a design for a medallion or a piece of 'limoges' style decorative art.
Condition Issues
Visible foxing (brown spots), minor paper losses at the right edge, slight yellowing of the paper support, and fading of the white heightening (oxidation).
Conservation Recommendations
Requires stabilization by a paper conservator; should be mounted with acid-free materials and kept behind UV-protective glass in a climate-controlled environment (low light).
Collector Notes
Haarlem