Two Allegorical Figures for a Ceiling 1734

Giovanni Battista Tiepolo sketched these allegorical figures with pen and brown wash, likely as studies for a ceiling fresco. Note the figure holding a cornucopia—a symbol of abundance and nourishment, deeply rooted in Greco-Roman art, often associated with deities like Fortuna or Ceres. Consider the way this symbol has evolved: from ancient cornucopias filled with fruits and grains to modern interpretations in commercial advertising, promising plenty. This transformation is more than a simple shift in context; it reflects our collective desires and anxieties about prosperity. The maternal figure, cradling a child while seated on clouds, evokes images of divine motherhood. Think of the countless Madonna and Child depictions throughout history, each reflecting cultural and psychological desires for protection and nurturing. The artist taps into this deep well of cultural memory, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. We are drawn to these symbols, not just for their aesthetic qualities, but for their ability to resonate with our primal needs and collective experiences. The motif of the cornucopia follows a non-linear progression and continues to resurface, evolving with new meanings in contemporary culture.