Design for a Wall Fountain 1550 - 1620

This anonymous drawing, titled "Design for a Wall Fountain," from the Metropolitan Museum of Art is a detailed plan for a Renaissance-style fountain. The design incorporates a variety of ornamental motifs including a central sculpted tree, winged figures, and grotesque faces. These elements were common decorative features during this period and were intended to add visual interest and a sense of grandeur to the design. The drawing's precise lines and meticulous detailing suggest that it was likely created as a guide for a skilled craftsman to execute the fountain. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the design process of this type of decorative art in the 16th and 17th centuries.