"Dauphin-fontaine In Repoussé Copper And Bronze. France, Late 19th Century. "
The dolphin is made of repoussé copper, constructed from several soldered parts. The fins and tail are bronze. A beautiful sculpture inspired by the Italian Renaissance. Probably French work from the late 19th century. Water is supplied through a hole hidden by the tail fin, which acts as a funnel. This was truly a functional fountain, not merely a decorative sculpture. Limescale has clogged the drain. The basin, which would have been shaped like a seashell, is missing. Height 56 cm.