Two Female Figures (possibly Ceres and Pomona)
Drawing on paper in an oval format • Circle of Hendrick Goltzius or Bartholomaeus Spranger (Northern Mannerist)
Style & Movement
Northern Mannerism (Haarlem or Prague School)
Medium & Technique
Pen and brown ink with brown wash and white heightening on prepared paper
Creation Period
Late 16th century, circa 1580-1600
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 15-20 cm in diameter; Oval (Tondo-style)
Subject Description
Two allegorical female figures with muscular, elongated bodies characteristic of the Mannerist aesthetic. The figure on the left holds a cornucopia spilling over with fruit and grain, suggesting symbols of abundance, fertility, or the seasons.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible edge wear and minor staining consistent with age
Estimated Market Value
$5,000 - $8,500
Auction Estimate
$4,000 - $6,000
Provenance History
Likely from a larger series of allegorical designs for engraving or decorative arts; Private European collection history
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of late 16th-century transatlantic Mannerism, demonstrating the influence of the Court of Rudolf II and the virtuosic line work of the Dutch School.
Notable Features
Virtuosic use of cross-hatching to define muscular anatomy and the dynamic, serpentine (figura serpentinata) poses typical of the era.
Condition Issues
Visible losses and small tears at the edges of the circular cutout; minor foxing and surface abrasion; fading of white heightening (oxidation).
Conservation Recommendations
Mounting with archival, acid-free hinges; housing behind UV-protective glass in a climate-controlled environment to prevent further paper degradation.
Collector Notes
Northern mannerist