Large old marble fountain with water-spitting fish and large shell as a basin

This large antique hardstone fountain presents a true work of sculpture !

Very elegant in its shapes and patterns, it is made of 3 massive stone elements : a water-spitting dolphin and a large monolithic basin sculpted in the shape of a shell resting on a small circular base.

The dolphin is a type of mythological fish which is a popular decorative element since the Renaissance. Although it is a cetacean mammal, the dolphin is then mostly depicted with the scales, tail and fins of fish, like here where it is shown with its tail up and has a crested dorsal fin. The head is exaggeratedly enlarged and rounded, the eyes are menacing, and the mouth with sharp teeth is parted, letting a brass fish through from which water gushes out. 

The large basin in the shape of a shell is massive and decorated with 2 volutes sculpted in relief. It rests on a small circular base.

This exceptional piece could undeniably enhance a garden or an interior courtyard.

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