Antoine Le Loup, 18th Century, "the Sauvenière Fountain In Spa," Ink Drawing

Ink drawing depicting the Sauvenière fountain in the 18th century near the renowned spa town of Spa (Belgium). The most frequented spring after those in the town center, the Sauvenière, along the old Malmedy road, is a must-see on the fountain walk. Physical exercise is indeed strongly recommended to spa-goers in addition to drinking the ferruginous water. Although renowned since the 16th century, this spring was not developed until the early 18th century. At that time, a small limestone structure topped with a bell-shaped dome was erected, which was complemented in 1753 by a simple octagonal pavilion with columns and a slate roof, and a walkway connecting it to an adjoining building. The patronage of an English spa guest finally made it possible to enhance the surrounding area with labyrinthine walks, resting places, and other features. Placed, like other springs, under the patronage of Saint Remacle, tradition held that women wishing to conceive within the year should drink water from the Sauvenière spring, placing their foot in the saint's footprint, carved in the 18th century. Restoration work in 1980 uncovered a shape carved into the stone that might suggest the ancient nature of this tradition.