Two Female Figures (possibly Ceres and Abundantia) with a Cornucopia
Drawing on paper, circular format (tondo) • Circle of Hendrick Goltzius or Manner of Bartholomeus Spranger (Northern Mannerist School)
Style & Movement
Northern Mannerism / International Mannerism
Medium & Technique
Pen and brown ink with brown wash, heightened with heavy white gouache hatching over traces of black chalk on prepared or aged paper.
Creation Period
Late 16th to early 17th Century (Mannerist period)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 15-20 cm in diameter; Oval/Tondo format.
Subject Description
Two allegorical female figures in dynamic, twisted poses (figura serpentinata) holding a large cornucopia overflowing with fruits. The figures represent themes of abundance, fertility, or the seasons. The composition is tightly cropped within an oval/circular border, emphasizing the muscularity and sculptural volume of the subjects.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. The paper shows signs of age-related discoloration and foxing. There are visible creases and minor losses along the edges where the drawing was trimmed.
Estimated Market Value
$4,000 - $7,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$3,000 - $5,000 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely part of a larger collector's album or a preparatory study for a decorative plate, medal, or ceiling fresco. No visible collector's marks are present on the face.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of late Renaissance Mannerism, showing the influence of the School of Prague and the Haarlem Academy. The use of heavy white heightening to define musculature is characteristic of the virtuoso drafting style popular in late 16th-century Northern Europe.
Notable Features
Distinctive use of 'heavy hatched heightening' as noted by the owner, which creates a high-relief, almost sculptural effect typical of the prints and drawings of Goltzius and his contemporaries.
Condition Issues
Significant foxing (small brown spots) throughout the paper. Edge wear and small tears resulting from the non-professional circular trimming. Yellowing of the white lead-based heightening (oxidation).
Conservation Recommendations
Requires stabilization by a paper conservator. Treatment for foxing and acid-free mounting is recommended. Should be kept in a UV-protected frame away from direct sunlight to prevent further paper degradation.
Collector Notes
Heavy hatched heightening