Grand Silver Fountain, 30 Kg

Provenance
This fountain bears the hallmark “800 – 3 PA,” associated with Palermo and the Formusa workshop. The hallmark places the work within the tradition of mid-20th-century Italian goldsmithing.

Description
The composition unfolds in several levels around a dynamic central axis, featuring a sweeping silhouette and a succession of shell-shaped basins. At the top, Neptune, his trident raised, rides a rearing hippocampus—a mythological sea creature with the body of a horse and the tail of a fish. The figure overlooks the first basin, from which water flows into the lower basins. The tiered shells are arranged in a cascade around the central column, whose lines evoke the movement of water and the folds of drapery. At the base, four horses are set among marine motifs. The entire piece rests on four sculpted dolphin-shaped feet. Octopuses, shells, starfish, and other aquatic creatures complete the decoration, which is particularly elaborate on the lower basin. The fountain is designed so that water flows freely from top to bottom between the various basins. Its size and multi-level composition give it a stately presence, suitable for a large interior. Weight: 30 kg.

Technique and Materials
The fountain is crafted from 800/1000 silver, as indicated by the hallmark. The basins, figures, and marine ornaments combine surfaces worked using repoussé and chiseled techniques with elements sculpted in the round. The variety of reliefs distinguishes the shells, animals, and mythological figures, while maintaining a coherent composition centered around the central axis. A small pump is built into the base and ensures the recirculation of water in a closed circuit.

Date
Italy, circa 1950. The date is based on the hallmark, the identification of the Formusa workshop, and the characteristics of Italian figurative goldsmithing from this period.

Condition
The fountain is in working order. The built-in pump circulates water in a closed loop. Additional detailed photographs and a video showing it in operation are available upon request.

Use and Intended Purpose
Designed as a tabletop fountain and centerpiece, it is intended for a well-proportioned interior where its marine motif and flowing water can be fully appreciated. Due to its size and cascading design, it is a particularly rare decorative piece. To the best of our knowledge, no other example of comparable dimensions is currently offered for sale.

Dimensions
height – 95 cm
diameter – 95 cm