Dolphin wall fountain spout

Since ancient times, fountains have been considered essential public facilities. The Romans developed vast networks of aqueducts to supply cities with abundant water, making fountains primarily a utilitarian feature. In the Middle Ages, they retained this simplicity, intended mainly to provide water accessible to the public. It was during the Renaissance that fountains were reinvented: the rediscovery of ancient treatises on hydraulics, such as Heron of Alexandria's Pneumatics, and a new aesthetic for pleasure gardens, illustrated by Francesco Colonna's The Dream of Poliphilo, transformed the fountain into a major decorative feature, influencing many creations up to the classical period, including the water pyramid created by François Girardon between 1668 and 1670 in Versailles, which makes direct reference to the world of dreams with its dragons and aquatic creatures. Aquatic themes are traditionally associated with the ornamentation of fountains and elements related to water and its circulation.

This zoomorphic fountain spout has a morphology similar to that of the dolphin as it was represented in the 17th century. However, the twist of the body leaves some doubt as to the precise identification of the creature. It could also be an aquatic monster, a figure intended to ward off evil spirits. The piece is dated 1646 and was found in an house in Brussels.

L. 43 cm?X?H. 17,5 cm?X?W. 9 cm

With base : H : 28cm

Base : 28 x 12 cm