Two Female Figures (possibly Nymphs or Muses) with a Cornucopia
Old Master Drawing on paper, oval format • Circle of Giorgio Vasari or School of Fontainebleau (possibly Northern Mannerist)
Style & Movement
Mannerism (Late Renaissance)
Medium & Technique
Pen and brown ink, wash, with white gouache heightening (biacca) over black chalk on toned paper
Creation Period
Late 16th Century (c. 1560–1590)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 15 x 20 cm; Oval (Tondo/Elliptical) format
Subject Description
Two elegant female figures in classical dress or diaphanous drapery; the central figure holds a large cornucopia filled with foliage and fruit. The elongated proportions and serpentine poses (figura serpentinata) are characteristic of Mannerist aesthetics.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; shows typical signs of age including surface oxidation and paper brittle and acidic toned
Estimated Market Value
$4,000 – $7,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$3,500 – $6,000 USD
Provenance History
Likely part of a larger decorative scheme or a design for a majolica plate or fresco medallion; typical of 18th-century European collections of Old Master drawings
Art Historical Significance
A fine example of Late Mannerist draftsmanship, illustrating the spread of the 'Stile Vasariano' into decorative arts and printmaking designs. It reflects the 16th-century obsession with allegory and courtly elegance.
Notable Features
The use of white heightening provides a sculptural relief effect; the oval cutting suggests it was a preparatory study for a decorative medallion or a ceiling frieze.
Condition Issues
Visible foxing, subtle diagonal creases, minor edge wear, and some fading/darkening of the white lead heightening due to oxidation.
Conservation Recommendations
Mount in acid-free hinges, use UV-protective museum glass, and maintain low-light stable environmental conditions (below 50 lux).