Two Female Figures with a Cornucopia (Possibly Abundantia or Ceres)
Drawing on paper; oval format • Circle of Hendrick Goltzius or Manner of Bartholomeus Spranger; alternatively, North Italian school influenced by Parmigianino.
Style & Movement
Northern Mannerism (Haarlem or Prague school influence)
Medium & Technique
Pen and ink with brown wash and white heightening (bi-chromatic chalk or wash) on toned paper. Techniques include cross-hatching and liquid white highlights.
Creation Period
Late 16th to early 17th century (c. 1580–1620)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 15 x 20 cm; Oval (Tondo-derivative) landscape format.
Subject Description
Two mythological or allegorical female figures in a dynamic, contorted composition. The central figure holds a large cornucopia filled with fruit, symbolizing abundance. The figures exhibit typical Mannerist 'figura serpentinata' with elongated limbs and small heads.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. The paper shows significant yellowing/oxidation and minor edge losses.
Estimated Market Value
$3,000 - $7,000
Auction Estimate
$2,500 - $5,000
Provenance History
Unknown; character of the drawing suggests it may have been a preparatory study for a decorative plate, frieze, or metalwork engraving.
Art Historical Significance
A fine example of Late Renaissance/Mannerist draftsmanship, showing the transition from Italian influence to the Northern European aesthetic of the Rudolphine court style.
Notable Features
The use of white heightening (biacca) to create sculptural volume and the specific 'doughy' muscularity typical of the Haarlem Mannerists.
Condition Issues
Visible foxing, paper browning (acidification), vertical crease or repair near the left edge, and minor abrasions to the white heightening.
Conservation Recommendations
Deacidification treatment by a paper conservator, mounting with acid-free materials, and UV-protective glazing to prevent further fading of the highlights.
Collector Notes
Northern mannerist