Two Mythological Figures with an Urn of Flowers
Drawing on paper, circular tondo format • Attributed to the Circle of Hendrick Goltzius or Cornelis Cornelisz. van Haarlem (Haarlem School)
Style & Movement
Northern Mannerism
Medium & Technique
Pen and brown ink, wash, and white gouache (heightening) on laid paper; likely prepared with a greyish-green ground. Cross-hatching and calligraphic line work.
Creation Period
Late 16th century, circa 1585-1600
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 15-20 cm in diameter; circular (tondo) format.
Subject Description
Two muscular figures (likely nymphs or minor deities) in a dynamic, contorted composition characteristic of Mannerism. One figure holds a fluted cornucopia-like urn spilling over with floral elements. The iconography suggests themes of abundance or a preparatory design for a decorative object like a silver platter.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. Structural integrity is mostly sound but shows significant foxing and paper oxidation consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
$4,000 - $7,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$3,000 - $5,000 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; the circular format suggests it may have originated from a collector's album of designs for goldsmiths or engravers.
Art Historical Significance
A strong example of the Haarlem Academy's influence. It illustrates the 'Sprangerism' style imported from Prague, focusing on exaggerated musculature and elegant, serpentine poses (figura serpentinata) that defined Dutch art before the shift to the Golden Age.
Notable Features
The use of white heightening creates a strong sculptural effect; the circular cropping is deliberate, likely a 'modello' for a metalwork relief or a medallion print.
Condition Issues
Notable foxing (brown spots) throughout the paper surface; minor edge wear and small losses at the margins; slight fading of the white heightening due to oxidation.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional consolidation of paper; deacidification treatment by a paper conservator; archival mounting with UV-protective museum glass.
Collector Notes
Northern mannerist. Probably Haarlem