Two Female Figures (Flora and Ceres) with a Cornucopia
Drawing on paper, oval format (tondo-like) • Attributed to the Circle of Bartholomeus Spranger or Hans von Aachen; possibly Prague School (Rudolfine Mannerism)
Style & Movement
Northern Mannerism (Prague / Haarlem Schools)
Medium & Technique
Pen and brown ink, brown wash, heightened with white gouache over traces of black chalk on prepared or toned paper
Creation Period
Late 16th to early 17th century (c. 1580–1610)
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 15 x 20 cm; oval (transverse) format
Subject Description
An allegorical representation featured in an oval composition. Two semi-nude female figures are depicted with elongated, muscular limbs and small heads characteristic of Mannerism. One figure holds a large cornucopia overflowing with fruits or flowers, likely symbolizing Abundance, Flora, or Ceres. The dynamic, twisting 'figura serpentinata' poses suggest a mythological or decorative theme intended for a larger commission such as a ceiling fresco or a metalwork design.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; shows significant signs of age-related wear including minor losses at edges and visible creasing.
Estimated Market Value
$4,000 - $7,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$3,000 - $5,000 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; stylistic evidence suggests an origin in a courtly workshop (likely Prague) followed by inclusion in a private collection of Old Master drawings. No visible collector stamps are present on the recto.
Art Historical Significance
A fine example of Rudolfine Mannerism, demonstrating the elegant, eroticized, and highly stylized aesthetic favored by the court of Holy Roman Emperor Rudolf II. It reflects the influence of Italian artists like Parmigianino on Northern European draftsmen.
Notable Features
Exhibits classic Mannerist 'figura serpentinata' (exaggerated twisting of the body); the white heightening remains quite vibrant in some areas, creating a strong sculptural relief effect typical of design sketches for goldsmiths.
Condition Issues
Visible vertical and horizontal creasing (possible former folding/mounting), minor edge nicks and small losses (notably at the top right edge), some oxidation of white heightening (turning grey/black in areas), and general surface soiling.
Conservation Recommendations
Requires stabilization by a paper conservator. Should be mounted using acid-free reversible hinges and kept behind UV-filtering glass in a climate-controlled environment (45-55% RH) to prevent further brittleness of the old paper.
Collector Notes
Northern mannerist