Design for a Fountain with Neptune in his Chariot 1740 - 1760

Francesco Fontebasso rendered this design for a fountain with pen and brown ink, capturing Neptune in his chariot. Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, stands powerfully, trident in hand, a symbol of his dominion over the waters. The god’s image is rooted in classical antiquity, echoing Poseidon of the Greeks, and before him, still earlier aquatic deities. Observe how the horses, emerging from the waves, recall similar motifs found in ancient Roman mosaics and Renaissance sculptures. This motif of theriomorphic vehicles has a long lineage. The emotional power of Neptune, a figure both commanding and benevolent, engages us on a subconscious level. We are drawn to the primal, life-sustaining force of the sea, embodied by this god. The cyclical progression of this symbol sees Neptune resurface in various guises. He perpetually evolves and takes on new meanings across historical contexts, reminding us of humanity's enduring relationship with the sea.