The Fountain of Triton was commissioned by Pope Urban VIII in 1642 and was unveiled in 1643. This fountain was Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s (1589-1680) first work of this genre. He commissioned this fountain because there was a need for a water supply in the surrounding area. The Acqua Felice supplies water to this fountain. It was built for the noble families who owned large villas while Bernini’s fountain was intended for the urban community. It was placed in Piazza Barberini, just outside the Barberini family palace. This reminded the people not only of the royal family, but also their pope.
Displayed on this fountain are four dolphins. Their tails combine to form a huge shell which supports Triton. In previous depictions of Triton, the dolphins contributed little to the scene. In Bernini’s masterpiece however, the dolphins are a detrimental part because they are seen holding Triton upright. This also hides the weight of the stone used for the construction. The dolphins are also seen reacting to Triton’s conch playing. A conch is the spiral shell of a gastropod which is often associated with Triton. The Papal crest is combined with the Barberini coat of arms to show the union between both parties. The Fountain of Triton was the highest water fountain of its day.
"Web Gallery of Art, Image Collection, Virtual Museum, Searchable Database of European Fine Arts (1000-1900)." Web Gallery of Art, Image Collection, Virtual Museum, Searchable Database of European Fine Arts (1000-1900). N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2014.
"The Fountain of Triton." Bernini 2013. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2014.
Displayed on this fountain are four dolphins. Their tails combine to form a huge shell which supports Triton. In previous depictions of Triton, the dolphins contributed little to the scene. In Bernini’s masterpiece however, the dolphins are a detrimental part because they are seen holding Triton upright. This also hides the weight of the stone used for the construction. The dolphins are also seen reacting to Triton’s conch playing. A conch is the spiral shell of a gastropod which is often associated with Triton. The Papal crest is combined with the Barberini coat of arms to show the union between both parties. The Fountain of Triton was the highest water fountain of its day.
Works Cited
"Web Gallery of Art, Image Collection, Virtual Museum, Searchable Database of European Fine Arts (1000-1900)." Web Gallery of Art, Image Collection, Virtual Museum, Searchable Database of European Fine Arts (1000-1900). N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2014.
"The Fountain of Triton." Bernini 2013. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2014.