Design for a Wine Fountain 1770 - 1816

Henri Auguste designed this ink on paper work, "Design for a Wine Fountain," during the late 18th or early 19th century, a period marked by political upheaval and social change in France. Auguste was active during the French Revolution; his family was closely connected to the royal court, creating designs and objects for the monarchy. It's difficult to ignore the fountain's overt display of luxury, especially when we think about the widespread poverty and social inequality that ultimately fueled the Revolution. There's a tension in this design, as the wine fountain symbolizes elitist pleasure. Simultaneously, its classical motifs and the incorporation of female figures draw from ancient traditions, attempting to legitimize power through historical and cultural references. Considering the revolutionary context and the fountain's emphasis on opulence, this piece reflects a society on the cusp of transformation. The fountain stands as a reminder of the complex dynamics of power, identity, and representation during a pivotal moment in history.