Two Female Figures with a Cornucopia (Design for a Tondo or Medal)
Old Master Drawing on paper, tondo format • Circle of Hendrick Goltzius or Bartholomeus Spranger (Northern Mannerist School)
Style & Movement
Northern Mannerism / International Mannerism
Medium & Technique
Pen and brown ink with brown wash, heightened with white lead (biacca) over black chalk or charcoal on laid paper
Creation Period
Late 16th to early 17th century (circa 1580-1610)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 15-20 cm in diameter; circular (tondo) format
Subject Description
Two allegorical female figures or nymphs, possibly representing Abundance or Fortune. The figure on the left holds an overflowing cornucopia. The composition features the elongated limbs, muscular anatomy, and dynamic, twisting poses (figura serpentinata) characteristic of the Prague and Haarlem Mannerists.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; shows signs of age-related degradation including minor foxing and slight oxidation of the white heightening.
Estimated Market Value
$4,000 - $7,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$3,000 - $5,000 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; stylistic evidence suggests a Central European or Dutch origin, likely intended as a preparatory study for a decorative object, engraving, or architectural embellishment.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of the diffusion of the Rudolfine Court style (Prague) into Northern Europe. It demonstrates the technical mastery of 'chiaroscuro' drawing techniques used to create three-dimensional volume in a compact, circular space, echoing the influence of artists like Jan Muller and Jacob Matham.
Notable Features
Distinctive circular crop indicates it was used as a study for a medal or 'schotel' (decorative plate); the 'hatching' and cross-hatching in the shadows reflect the graphic language of engraving.
Condition Issues
Visible edge wear and minor losses at the periphery of the circular cut; yellowing/tanning of the paper; white highlights have darkened due to lead oxidation; minor creases and surface abrasions.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional dry cleaning to remove surface dirt; deacidification treatment by a paper conservator; archival mounting with UV-protective glass; strictly controlled humidity and low light levels to prevent further paper embrittlement and fading.
Collector Notes
Northern