Trevi Fountain Self-researched
Rome, Italy
Architectural style: Baroque
Artworks
Products of Autumn Self-researched
An allegorical figure at the attic level holding grapes and a cup, representing the autumn harvest and the bounty of the vine made possible by fresh water.
Joy of Prairies and Gardens Self-researched
The fourth attic-level statue, this figure is adorned with flowers, representing the flourishing of meadows and gardens nourished by the aqueduct's waters.
Fertility of Crops Self-researched
An attic-level allegorical statue depicting the fertility of crops. The figure holds ears of wheat, symbolizing the agricultural prosperity enabled by the aqueduct's waters.
Abundance of Fruits Self-researched
One of four allegorical statues adorning the attic level of the fountain, representing the abundance of fruits. The figure holds a horn of plenty (cornucopia), symbolizing the bounty that water brings to agriculture.
Allegory of Health (Salubrity) Self-researched
Positioned in the right niche flanking Oceanus, this female figure holds a cup from which a serpent drinks, the traditional symbol of health. She represents the healing and life-giving properties of fresh water.
Allegory of Abundance Self-researched
One of two allegorical statues flanking the central niche, positioned in the left niche. The female figure holds a cornucopia overflowing with fruits, symbolizing the abundance that water brings to the land.
Relief of the Virgin Showing Soldiers the Spring Self-researched
Positioned above the right niche, this bas-relief illustrates the legend that gave the Aqua Virgo its name. A young maiden (virgo) leads Roman soldiers to a pure spring, which became the source for the aqueduct.
Relief of Agrippa Approving the Aqueduct Plans Self-researched
Located above the left niche, this bas-relief depicts the Roman general Marcus Agrippa approving the construction plans for the Aqua Virgo aqueduct in 19 BC. The relief commemorates the historical origins of the water supply that feeds the fountain.
Tritons with Hippocamps Self-researched
Two tritons guide Oceanus's shell chariot, each controlling a hippocamp (sea horse). One triton blows a conch shell to announce the god's approach, while the other struggles to tame a wild hippocamp. The contrast between the calm and agitated horses symbolizes the moods of the sea.
Oceanus (Neptune) Self-researched
The colossal central figure of the fountain, depicting Oceanus (the personification of all seas and oceans) standing in an oyster-shell chariot. The god commands the waters with a gesture of authority. Bracci carved the marble sculpture based on a plaster modello by Maini, who died before completing the work.