Two Plans and Elevations for Fountains 16th century

This is a delicate drawing of two fountain designs, rendered anonymously with pen and brown wash on paper. Note the prominence of water-related symbols: the dolphin sculpture atop one fountain, a motif deeply rooted in classical antiquity. The dolphin, often associated with speed, salvation, and love, enjoyed a rich symbolic life. In ancient Greek mythology, dolphins were believed to carry souls to the afterlife, and their playful nature made them symbols of joy and music. Fast forward to Renaissance art, and we see dolphins adorning fountains and sculptures, emblems of renewal, and transformation. Consider the emotional undercurrent, the psychological draw of flowing water. Fountains have long served as gathering places, their soothing sounds and visual appeal sparking joy, contemplation, and communal connection. The enduring appeal of water, particularly in designed forms like these fountains, showcases how certain images continuously resurface, adapting to new cultural landscapes while retaining their primal allure.