Fontein met Jupiter en Juno 1560 - 1598

Wendel Dietterlin created this intricate ink drawing titled 'Fontein met Jupiter en Juno' sometime in the late 16th century. The composition is dominated by a multi-tiered fountain, its surface teeming with ornate sculptures and grotesque masks. The sharp contrast achieved through etching gives the artwork a remarkable texture, emphasizing the density and complexity of the design. Dietterlin's vision extends beyond mere representation; the fountain becomes a stage for mythological narratives. Statues of Jupiter and Juno, along with cherubic figures, are integrated into the architectural framework. The elaborate ornamentation and the dynamic arrangement of figures suggest an engagement with Mannerism, where the artificial and the complex are favored over classical ideals of balance and harmony. The detailed execution invites us to decode the symbolism and cultural codes embedded within the work. This fountain not only serves an aesthetic purpose, but also communicates ideas about power, mythology, and artistic virtuosity.