Fontein naar rechts gekeerd c. 1657 - 1661

Jean Lepautre created this print, "Fountain facing right," at an unknown date, and it's now held in the Rijksmuseum. The print presents an elaborate display of decorative art, dominated by the intricate detailing of a fountain. The use of fine lines captures the ornateness of the period, evoking a sense of opulence. The composition is structured around the interplay of forms: the robust curves of the fountain contrast with the rigid architectural lines of the room. This juxtaposition creates a visual tension, highlighting the tension between organic and geometric forms. The density of detail is not merely decorative; it reflects a semiotic system where each motif—foliage, figures, and urns—serves as a signifier of status and taste. The print destabilizes a clear distinction between art and environment. The fountain is presented as an object of display and a functional element within a larger domestic setting. Lepautre challenges us to consider how art shapes our perception of space and influences cultural values.