Fontana dell'Acqua Felice 1576 - 1618

This engraving by Giovanni Maggi, created between 1576 and 1618, depicts the Fontana dell'Acqua Felice (Fountain of Happy Water) in Rome. The fountain was commissioned by Pope Sixtus V and dedicated to the Roman people for public use. The engraving showcases the fountain's architectural grandeur, with its intricate details, ornate columns, and the inscription "Sixtus V. P.O.M" (Sixtus V, Supreme Pontiff). The depiction of the fountain's water spouts flowing from lion statues highlights its practical function, while the surrounding landscape further emphasizes its grandeur. This intricate engraving allows viewers to appreciate the fountain's design and its importance as a symbol of public service during the Renaissance.